Oppel et al. (2025)
Author Information
Steffen Oppel: Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), Auckland Zoo, and Manaaki Whenua (Landcare Research, New Zealand) conducted an expedition to Henderson Island in June and July 2024 to explore options for the eradication of invasive rats (kiore, Rattus exulans), which have decimated seabird populations (Murphy’s Petrel Pterodroma ultima, Henderson Petrel P. atrata, Herald Petrel P. heraldica, and Kermadec Petrel P. neglecta) on the island. A previous rat eradication attempt in 2011 had failed, and the team conducted trials with different baits to understand which baits rats may prefer. No seabird work was conducted during this expedition. Plans to eradicate invasive rats from Henderson are being discussed with the community on Pitcairn.
