In the heart of the Caribbean, a remarkable tale of resilience unfolds on Sombrero Island, where the critically endangered Sombrero ground lizard (Pholidoscelis corvinus) has made a triumphant return from the brink of extinction. Once numbering fewer than 100 individuals in 2018, recent conservation efforts have propelled their population to over 1,600, marking a 1,500% increase in just six years.
Sombrero Islan its hat-like shape, is a remote, uninhabited speck under Anguilla’s jurisdiction. Despite its isolation, the island’s ecosystem faced significant threats from invasive species, particularly mice inadvertently introduced by human activities.
These rodents wreaked havoc by consuming seeds, preying on seabird eggs, and disrupting the natural regeneration of vegetation. The resulting habitat degradation left the native lizards vulnerable, with scarce food and shelter.
In 2018, a coation organizations, including Fauna & Flora, the Anguilla National Trust, and Re:wild, initiated a comprehensive restoration project. Their strategy centered on eradicating the invasive mice population, a feat accomplished between June and August 2021 through meticulous trapping and baiting.
To prevent re-infestation, the team implemented a robust biosecurity plan, featuring regular monitoring and the development of AI-powered surveillance cameras designed to detect invasive species.
The removal ofdiate positive outcomes. Native vegetation began to recover, providing essential food sources and habitats for the lizards. The resurgence of plant life also benefited the island’s seabird colonies, creating a more balanced and thriving ecosystem. However, challenges persist.
The island’s limited soil cover, exacerbated by past environmental degradation, makes it susceptible to hurricanes and storm surges intensified by climate change. Ongoing efforts to restore native vegetation aim to bolster the island’s resilience against such natural disasters.
The success onirrors similar conservation triumphs in the Caribbean. For instance, the Redonda ground dragon (Pholidoscelis atratus) experienced a significant population increase following the removal of invasive species from Redonda Island. These cases underscore the profound impact of targeted restoration efforts in reviving endangered species and restoring ecological balance.
The remarkable recovery of the Sombrero ground lizard serves as a beacon of hope in conservation circles. It exemplifies how dedicated, science-driven interventions can reverse the fortunes of species on the edge of extinction. As Dr. Jenny Daltry, Caribbean Alliance Director at Fauna & Flora and Re:wild, aptly stated, “Too many island species have been lost already, and we really need to prevent extinctions whenever we can.”
This success story not only highlights the resilience of nature but also emphasizes proactive conservation measures. It reminds us that, even in the face of daunting challenges like climate change and habitat degradation, concerted human efforts can foster recovery and sustainability. The ongoing vigilance and commitment to preserving Sombrero Island’s unique ecosystem will be crucial in ensuring that the Sombrero ground lizard continues to thrive for generations to come.
