Round Island in 1982

Abstract

When a scientific expedition visited Round Island in 1975 it found that introduced rabbits and goats had destroyed most of the vegetation, threatening the survival of the reptiles that depended upon it and causing soil erosion. (See Oryx, 14, page 51.) Eradication of the goats and rabbits was recommended. Seven years later the 1982 Round Island Expedition was launched to monitor the reptile, palm and alien mammal populations. ffPS contributed £100 which was raised through a special appeal. The authors, who participated in both surveys, report on the striking changes that have occurred in just seven years and discuss the future prospects for the island's wildlife, especially for the endemic reptiles.