Juneau, Alaska: On a windswept tundra island in the Bering Sea, far from mainland Alaska, a resident reported seeing a rat outside their home, although they were uncertain about the sighting. This report ignited concern on St. Paul Island, part of the Pribilof Islands, known for its rich birdlife and often referred to as the “Galapagos of the north.
” Rats that stow away on boats can quickly infest remote islands, leading to severe declines in bird populations by consuming eggs, chicks, and even adult birds, disrupting fragile ecosystems. Following the resident’s report in June, wildlife officials investigated the area around the apartment complex, searching for tracks, chew marks, or droppings. They set traps baited with peanut butter and installed trail cameras, but no evidence of the rat has been found.
Lauren Divine, director of the Aleut Community of St. Paul Island’s ecosystem conservation office, emphasized the seriousness of the threat, stating, “Rats absolutely decimate seabird colonies, so the threat is never one that the community would take lightly.” The anxiety on St.
Paul Island reflects ongoing efforts to keep non-native rats off ecologically sensitive islands. Successful rodent eradication has occurred on hundreds of islands globally, including “Rat Island” in Alaska's Aleutian chain. However, these efforts are time-consuming and costly, making prevention a priority.
Around St. Paul, officials have placed “chew blocks” designed to detect rod.