#191 | Island Revival: The Art of Rebuilding Caribbean Ecosystems with Shanna Challenger

The Caribbean's offshore islands are treasures of biodiversity, but centuries of human impact and invasive species have pushed many of these delicate ecosystems to the brink. In this episode, Brooke sits down with Shanna Challenger, Offshore Islands Conservation Programme Coordinator of the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) in Antigua and Barbuda, to explore the complex challenges of rewilding islands. From combating invasive species to securing the future of the Antiguan racer snake, Shanna details the dramatic transformations of the islands and the dedication required to revive these delicate ecosystems. Join us as we uncover the successes, challenges, and inspiring stories behind island restoration in the Caribbean.00:00 Introduction to Caribbean Island Biodiversity 00:36 Meet Shanna Challenger: Island Restoration Expert 01:02 Challenges and Successes in Island Rewilding 02:30 Personal Journey: From Childhood to Conservation 09:21 The Redonda Restoration Project Begins 11:37 Conservation Challenges in the Caribbean 33:01 The Unique Wildlife of Redonda 37:47 Goat Relocation Efforts 43:28 Rat Eradication on Redonda 53:14 Seabirds and Clever Rats 56:08 Rat Eradication Strategy 01:03:34 Impact on Redonda's Ecosystem 01:10:37 Conservation Efforts and Challenges 01:26:54 Future Plans and Community Involvement 01:33:16 How You Can Help 01:45:38 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn