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Families Wanted on Tiny Island

By Islomaniac | January 5, 2007

Yesterday I posted this article about Canna Island, a tiny island of the coast of Scotland. I thought I would follow it up today with more information on its search for new families to help its dwindling population. Apparently their are two properties for rent on the island and they have completed taking applications.

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Author unknown

BBC News

Source:

Canna is in the Small Isles off the west coast of Scotland

An island which has seen drastic action to protect its rare mice and birds is now trying to end a decline in its human population.

The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) hopes to attract two new families to Canna in the Hebrides.

The trust, which owns the most westerly of the Small Isles, said it has 15 inhabitants left.

In an effort to reverse the decline, NTS is offering two of its properties for rent.

Alex Lindsay, NTS director for the Highlands and Islands, said applicants should be eager to play an active role in the community.

“It is hoped that bringing in new residents will contribute to the safeguarding of the school, community and economy of the island”

Alex Lindsay
NTS

He said: “We are very keen to hear from families who wish to take up the opportunity to live and work on Canna.

“It is hoped that bringing in new residents will contribute to the safeguarding of the school, community and economy of the island, whilst increasing the skills base and making a valuable contribution to island life.”

NTS said there were potential employment opportunities on the island for people with building, gardening, electrics or plumbing skills.

Employment on Canna is mainly associated with agriculture in the traditional farming of sheep and cattle together with crofting.

Tourism also plays a role with about 30,000 people visiting every year.

Until now it has been Canna’s wildlife that has given NTS most cause for concern.

A rat extermination programme was introduced after it was found that the predators were eating eggs and bird chicks.

The mammals are thought to have been completely wiped out and seabirds such as shag, razorbills and Manx shearwater are showing signs of recovery.

Wood mice were removed from the island so they were not exterminated along with the rats.

Earlier this year, 150 mice were returned to Canna after being looked after at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park.


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Topics: Island Cultures, Miscellaneous |

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