What is the terrain lay of the land like on Macquarie Island?

What is the terrain lay of the land like on Macquarie Island?

The island consists of plateaus at north and south ends, each of 150–200 m (490–660 ft) elevation, joined by a low, narrow isthmus.

Why is Macquarie Island in danger?

Macquarie Island under threat Feral cats (as well as other feral animals) contributed to the extinction of two native bird species – the Macquarie Island parakeet and the Macquarie Island rail – before cats were totally eradicated in 2000. Introduced rabbits, rats and mice are a growing threat on the island.

Why were rabbits a problem on Macquarie Island?

European rabbits were introduced to Macquarie Island in the 1870s, while ship rats and house mice were first recorded on the island in the 1890s. Rabbits consumed the large, leafy megaherbs and grasses, which lacked the ability to adapt to grazing.

How did cats and rabbits get into Macquarie Island?

These species become quite entwined in the hundreds of years they are together.” Cats were introduced to the Macquarie Island in 1818; sealers introduced rabbits 60 years later. The rabbits tore through the island’s vegetation. In 1968, the rabbit flea was introduced.

What is the legend of Macquarie Island?

The island was sighted in 1810 by Frederick Hasselborough, an Australian sealer, who named it for Lachlan Macquarie, then governor of New South Wales. Hasselborough noted at the time the presence of a wrecked ship “of ancient design,” presumably Polynesian. The island was a centre for seal hunting until 1919.

Can I visit Macquarie Island?

You can only visit Macquarie Island on a small ship expedition cruise, so, sharing an onboard home with up to 50 other passengers, hopping on and off to explore unfamiliar surrounds, you’ll need your sea legs. But that’s all part of the adventure.

What did cats do Macquarie Island?

Given easy prey, cats feasted on the hapless rabbits and feline numbers quickly grew. The island then lost two endemic flightless birds, a rail and a parakeet. Meanwhile, the rabbits bred rapidly and nibbled the island’s precious vegetation.