Video captures insights and hopes from the partners who are working to restore Lehua Island, Hawai’i.

In 2021, Lehua Island officially became free from the threat of invasive rodents. This is a huge accomplishment that has enriched the region’s biodiversity and local fisheries. Social attraction methods–using fake birds and recordings of calls–have encouraged endangered seabirds such as the ʻewaʻewa (Sooty Tern), the pākalakala (Gray-backed Tern), and the hinaokū (Blue-gray Noddy) to return to their nesting spots. We originally published this blog back in 2017, deep in the thick of the project. Looking back now, after its successful completion, it’s inspiring to see our ambitions and hopes realized! Originally published September 28, 2017.

Lehua Island, Hawai’i is an important nesting site for more than 17 species of native seabirds, but predation by non-native, damaging (invasive) species on seabird eggs, chicks, and adults has had an ecosystem-wide impact. In an effort to restore the island to a safe refuge for seabirds, Island Conservation, in partnership with Hawai’i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources and other Lehua restoration partners have taken action to remove the invasive predators.

Enjoy this video about the project and the partners’ hope for a future of healthy seabirds on Lehua, featuring insights from the team.

Featured Photo: Juvenile Red-footed Booby on Lehua.