New project to eradicate mink in Outer Hebrides
American mink are aggressive and opportunistic predators.
A Scottish nature project is to receive vital funding to eradicate the mink population in the Outer Hebrides.
Saving Nature Outer Hebrides will work to continue reducing the numbers of the invasive species in the Scottish islands, which threaten local bird populations.
The project has received £94,000 in funding from the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund (NRF). Using the funding, NatureScot, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Community Land Outer Hebrides will collaborate to develop a plan to completely eradicate mink from the area.
American mink first came to the Outer Hebrides in the 1950s, amidst a rise in fur farms in the area.
The mink proved to be aggressive and opportunistic predators, which took whatever prey was available to them. This means they are often killing more prey than the food which they require.
NatureScot says that the presence of mink in the Outer Hebrides poses a threat to many bird populations.
This latest project will build upon the work of the Hebridean Mink Project, which has already significantly reduced mink numbers to extremely low levels.
Those involved with the project say that its had positive consequences for internationally important bird populations. Ground nesting birds have particularly benefitted from the project's trapping scheme.
Many bird species are expected to benefit from the scheme, including terns and gulls, as well as many wader and duck species. It could also minimise predation on juvenile salmon and sea trout populations.
David Maclennan, NatureScot's head of operations, said: “It’s clear, however, that the existing level of trapping has not been enough to completely eradicate mink from the islands. We believe that while it will be challenging, total removal is feasible and in the long-term offers both the most effective protection for our native wildlife and the most cost-effective solution to the problem.
“This funding marks a step change in our approach. We are determined that this new project will learn from the past and make the changes required to maximise the chance of success in future.”
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