Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile
A community-centered project to restore unique endemic ways of life
THE PROJECT: Robinson Crusoe Island Restoration Project
LOCATION: Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile
THE WORK: Robinson Crusoe Island is home to roughly 1,000 people working to restore and protect the vital habitat that connects land and sea. In coordination with local and international partners, the community is building a resilient Robinson Crusoe Island through a suite of activities, including the removal of damaging, invasive species. It is currently ongoing and expected to continue through 2026.
SPECIES: Lactoridaceae (endemic plant family); Juan Fernández Firecrown; Pink-footed Shearwater; Juan Fernández Petrel; Juan Fernández Tit-tyrant; De Filippi's Petrel.
COMMUNITY: Robinson Crusoe Island’s residents lead this project, their intimate knowledge of the island’s weather, environment, and species informing every aspect of its stewardship and restoration.
About Robinson Crusoe Island
Robinson Crusoe Island spans approximately 93 square kilometers and features rugged terrain with steep cliffs and dense forests. Its unique environment has been host to many thrilling conservation initiatives, including the Work for Humankind partnership between Island Conservation and Lenovo. Through this project, islanders used AI and machine learning to help remove invasive predators to the IUCN-listed Vulnerable Pink-footed Shearwater, improving the species’ ability to nest safely.
A jewel of the Juan Fernández Archipelago, Robinson Crusoe Island is home to a community of fewer than 1000 people who live in deep interconnection with the land and sea. Nourished by the plentiful fish in the nearby waters, communities of people, birds, and seals flourish on its shores.
Home to many of the Juan Fernández Archipelago’s precious endemic species, Robinson Crusoe is a haven of conservation and harmony between people and nature. Rare local birds such as the Critically Endangered Juan Fernández Firecrown, the world’s only endemic hummingbird, stand to benefit from the community’s commitment to protect their island home. The threats of harmful invasive species put pressure on bird populations, and their removal will help these rare species to thrive once again!
Voices from the community
“This is a dream that came from our ancient ancestors, who started with the knowledge of conservation. What we’re doing is for our ancestors, for ourselves, for our children, and for those who have not been born yet.”
— Julio Chamorro, Head of the Sea Council