Woody, a specially trained labrador, plays a vital role in protecting seabirds from invasive predators on Rathlin Island.

Introducing Woody, a two-year-old Fox Red Labrador with an extraordinary job: safeguarding seabirds, particularly puffins, on Rathlin Island, located off the coast of Northern Ireland. Woody is part of a crucial conservation initiative known as LIFE Raft, designed to combat the threat posed by invasive species to native wildlife.

Woody’s role as a detection dog involves using his remarkable sense of smell to locate and identify the presence of invasive predators such as rats and ferrets by sniffing out their droppings. His handler, Ulf Keller, has trained Woody to effectively search for these animals, which are detrimental to the local seabird population.

On Rathlin Island, puffins and other seabirds rely on their nesting grounds for survival, but they face significant risks from ferrets and rats, which prey on their eggs and chicks. Conservationists have expressed serious concerns over the impact of these predators, particularly in light of ongoing climate change challenges. Last year, a disheartening statistic emerged: only one in three puffin chicks, affectionately called pufflings, survived, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

The introduction of ferrets to Rathlin in the 1980s was intended to control the rabbit population. However, these ferrets quickly multiplied and began targeting the island’s vulnerable seabird populations. Since the LIFE Raft initiative commenced, Woody has proven invaluable, aiding in the capture and removal of approximately 98 ferrets, with no confirmed sightings of the species for several months.

Now, the project shifts focus to addressing the population of around 10,000 rats on the island. With Woody’s keen sense of smell, there’s hope that the efforts to control these invasive species will lead to a resurgence in the seabird population.

Ulf describes Woody as “a big goof” with a playful spirit. While he exhibits remarkable focus and dedication when on duty, he remains a lively two-year-old Labrador during his downtime, brimming with energy. To ensure Woody’s safety during his work, he wears special goggles designed to protect his eyes from thorny bushes like brambles and thistles.

“He’s treated like any other member of staff, with his PPE and breaks,” Ulf explains. “He enjoys working, and I enjoy working with him. I love being on the island, and I think he does too.”

The LIFE Raft project is set to conclude in 2026, but there are hopes that Woody will continue to assist in preventing the return of non-native species long after the initiative ends. His work exemplifies how innovative approaches in wildlife conservation can make a significant difference, not only for the puffins but for the broader ecosystem on Rathlin Island.