We, the undersigned, call upon the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Rat Island, a vital sanctuary in the Salish Sea that serves as a critical breeding ground for various endangered avian species, including the Caspian Terns. In a tragic turn of events in 2023, the Salish Sea Caspian Tern population suffered a catastrophic loss of 80% due to a bird flu outbreak, highlighting the precarious situation of these birds and the urgent need for protected breeding grounds.

Rat Island stands out as one of the last remaining sanctuaries where Caspian Terns can safely nest and reproduce, making the protection of this habitat not just a matter of environmental stewardship but a dire necessity for the survival of this species. The loss experienced serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our ecosystem and the pressing need for proactive conservation measures.

Furthermore, Rat Island plays a crucial role beyond avian conservation. It is also the site of a harbor seal rookery, pivotal for the seal population’s reproductive activities. Each year, from June through August, harbor seals use Rat Island to give birth and rear their young, a period that unfortunately coincides with increased human activities in the area. Protecting Rat Island is thus essential not only for the avian species but also for the harbor seals and the overall biodiversity of the Salish Sea.

Given the critical need to safeguard the unique wildlife of Rat Island, we respectfully urge the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to take the following actions:

1.     Implement Enhanced Protection Measures: Elevate the protection status of Rat Island by imposing strict limitations on human access during critical breeding and pupping seasons. This will significantly reduce disturbances to the island’s wildlife, ensuring their natural behaviors and reproductive processes are not disrupted.

2.     Enforce a Permanent Closure from May 1st to September 30th: Enforce a complete prohibition on human access to Rat Island from May 1st through September 30th. This timeframe covers the crucial breeding and rearing periods for vulnerable species, and such a closure will help minimize human impact and support the successful reproduction and growth of wildlife populations.

3.     Enhance Monitoring and Research Efforts: Increase funding and resources dedicated to the regular monitoring and research of wildlife on Rat Island. This will enable timely detection of health issues, population declines, and other critical factors, allowing for prompt and effective management interventions to protect the island’s biodiversity.

4.     Advance Awareness and Education Initiatives: Develop and distribute comprehensive educational materials that emphasize Rat Island’s significance to the Salish Sea’s ecological health. By raising community awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of the island’s importance, we can encourage responsible recreational practices and bolster public support for ongoing conservation efforts.

By signing this petition, we express our deep concern for the future of Rat Island’s wildlife and our collective conviction that immediate action is necessary to preserve this indispensable natural habitat. We urge the WDFW to prioritize these actions, ensuring the survival and thriving of the unique species that depend on Rat Island for their continued existence.

Together, we can make a difference for Rat Island and its invaluable ecosystems. Thank you for your support and action.