Records show a serious decline of Isle of Eigg’s seabird population over the last 40 years, with rat predation as a significant factor. This feasibility study aims to understand the threat and subsequent mitigation options.
SMEEF have awarded this grant to the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust (IEHT) to commission a feasibility study, delivered in partnership with the RSPB, Scottish Wildlife Trust and Isle of Eigg Residents Association. While its focus is restoring seabird populations and improving biodiversity, a rat eradication programme also improves islanders’ lives – by reducing property damage and loss of agricultural feed; improving mental health from living in a cleaner environment; and cutting rat control costs.
In 2025 SMEEF was able to provide a grant of £40,481 to support this work using resources donated by businesses.