From Rats to Riches: The Caribbean Island's Remarkable Wildlife Transformation

Redonda, a small island belonging to Antigua and Barbuda, was once overrun by invasive species such as rats and feral goats, leading to the destruction of its vegetation and ecosystem. However, in 2016, environmental groups launched an effort to restore the island by eliminating these invasive species. The removal of rats and goats allowed the island to rebound, with vegetation regrowing and endemic species thriving. As a result, the Antiguan government recently designated Redonda and its surrounding area as a protected reserve, safeguarding 30,000 hectares of land and sea. The success of Redonda's restoration serves as a shining example for other island nations in the Caribbean and beyond, highlighting the effectiveness of rewilding and the importance of biodiversity conservation.