Impact of Four Goats on Great Island Ecosystem

The introduction of four goats to Great Island in 1889 drastically changed the island's ecosystem, leading to the decline of native vegetation and animal species.

• Four goats released on Great Island in 1889 as food source for shipwrecked sailors.
• Population grew to hundreds by early 20th century due to lack of predators and abundant food.
• Goats consumed native vegetation, causing significant ecological changes.
• Native bird species and plants, including some on the brink of extinction, were adversely affected.
• Botanist Thomas Cheeseman noted disappearance of several plant species during later visits.