Island Restoration in the Galápagos Islands
Author Information
Author(s): Carrion Victor, Donlan C. Josh, Campbell Karl J., Lavoie Christian, Cruz Felipe
Primary Institution: Galápagos National Park Service
Hypothesis
Can an archipelago-wide approach to invasive species eradication reduce costs and reinvasion risks?
Conclusion
The archipelago-wide goat eradication strategy in the Galápagos Islands has proven effective in reducing invasive species and restoring biodiversity.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 140,000 goats were removed from more than 500,000 hectares.
- The total cost of the goat eradication efforts was approximately $12 million.
- Goat reintroductions have occurred nine times since successful eradication programs.
Takeaway
This study shows that removing invasive goats from the Galápagos Islands helps protect local wildlife and costs less when done across multiple islands.
Methodology
The study involved aerial and ground hunting, as well as the use of Judas goats to monitor and eradicate feral goat populations across the Galápagos Islands.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from political influences and local stakeholder interests in the reintroduction of goats.
Limitations
The study does not provide detailed cost data for earlier eradications and may not account for all variables affecting eradication success.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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