Unit: Lord Howe Island – Years 5 & 6

Lord Howe Island is the largest island in a group of islands called the Lord Howe Island Group. The island is home to about 380 people, as well as many interesting species of plants and animals. Some of the more interesting animal species include the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect and the Lord Howe Woodhen. The plants of Lord Howe Island are similar to those found on nearby islands and landmasses, such as Australia, New Zealand and Norfolk Island.

Because of its isolation and size, Lord Howe Island makes for an interesting study site into adaptation and evolution as there is little interference from external forces. However, the size and remoteness of Lord Howe Island have also made it vulnerable to the few external forces that have made it to the Island. These include rats and mice who have caused considerable damage to the ecology of the Island. However, eradication programs have seen both these species removed from the Island. These programs are a demonstration of the work that can be done to preserve and conserve precious habitats and the value of engaging local communities in these programs to ensure success.

In the lessons in this unit, students will explore the geographical and ecological features of Lord Howe Island, the work involved in eradicating invasive species, and what can be done to help protect biodiversity – both on islands like Lord Howe Island and around the world – from future threats, such as marine waste and climate change.