Macquarie Island

Qualitative modelling of invasive species eradication on subantarctic Macquarie Island

Simultaneous eradication of rabbits, rats, and mice from Macquarie Island is strongly supported by qualitative modelling due to the high likelihood of continued ecological impacts if only one or two species are targeted. The study predicts positive outcomes for native tall tussock vegetation and burrow- and surface-nesting seabirds but also highlights risks, such as potential failure in eradicating mice and unintended consequences from redpolls and starlings. This approach demonstrates that qualitative modelling can provide consistent insights even with significant ecosystem uncertainty, aiding strategic conservation planning.