History

Island Conservation prevents extinctions by working where the concentration of both biodiversity and species extinction is greatest—islands. By removing one of the greatest threats—introduced invasive vertebrates—native island species and ecosystems recover with little or no additional intervention. To date, Island Conservation has protected 967 populations of 338 native species on 51 islands worldwide.

Island Conservation began as a network of conservationists in 1994 and became a charitable organization in 1997. Working together with local communities, government management agencies and conservation organizations, we select islands that have the greatest potential for preventing the extinction of globally threatened species; develop comprehensive and humane plans for the removal of invasive species; implement the removal of invasive species; and conduct research—conservation measures—to understand the ecosystem changes and benefits to inform future conservation action.

Our Impact

• 967 populations of 338 species protected 
• 338 seabird colonies of 64 species recovered 
• 51 islands totaling 131,875 acres (53,368 ha) free from the most damaging invasive animals