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Briefing: Predatory feral ferrets removed from an island for the first time ever

Strategic angle: Rathlin Island in Northern Ireland is now ferret-free after a £4.5m partnership aimed at protecting seabird colonies.

Editorial Staff · 2026-03-23 · 1 MIN READ

The removal of feral ferrets from Rathlin Island marks a critical step in wildlife management, specifically aimed at safeguarding seabird populations.

This initiative, which cost £4.5 million and spanned five years, was led by RSPB NI, indicating a structured approach to invasive species control.

The successful eradication of these predators is expected to improve the ecological balance and support the recovery of the island's largest seabird colony.