US wildlife teams surveyed six offshore islands for invasive species, finding rats on five and iguanas on one; the results will guide future work to protect nesting seabirds

Recent surveys in the U.S. Virgin Islands have identified invasive species on several offshore cays. Black rats and green iguanas pose significant threats to local seabird populations, such as the red-billed tropicbird. Conservationists are now evaluating strategies to eradicate these non-native animals from the islands. Removal efforts could lead to improved nesting conditions for seabirds in the future. Successful initiatives may help restore these vital habitats for future generations.