vrijdag 22 februari 2008

Rat Invasions Causing Seabird Decline Worldwide

Invasive rats on ocean islands are threatening the survival of many of the world's seabirds, according to a new report.

The global analysis found that non-native rats have been observed preying on roughly a quarter of all seabird species, often with disastrous consequences.

The voracious rodents attack bird nesting colonies, eating eggs, chicks, and sometimes even adult birds.

Now 102 of 328 recognized seabird species are considered threatened or endangered by the World Conservation Union, with predation by invasive species ranking among the top dangers.

Lees meer: National Geographic

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