Mouse-Free Marion Project Receives US $1 Million From Mark Shuttleworth
The Mouse-Free Marion Project, part of the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge has received a major boost with a generous $1 million donation from South African tech entrepreneur and philanthropist Mark Shuttleworth. This contribution will support efforts to eradicate invasive House Mice from Marion Island, where they pose a severe threat to native seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels.
Shuttleworth, known for his pioneering work in internet security and open-source software, has increasingly focused on environmental conservation. His support for Marion Island follows his impactful work on Príncipe Island, promoting ecotourism and biodiversity protection.
“This remarkable contribution strengthens our capacity to deliver this globally significant conservation effort,” said Anton Wolfaardt, Project Manager.
“It also inspires others to support the protection of one of our planet’s most extraordinary wild places.”
The donation will be available to the project in early 2026, helping advance one of South Africa’s most ambitious environmental restoration initiatives. Invasive mice, introduced by humans, have devastated native bird populations by preying on eggs and chicks, particularly affecting iconic species like the Wandering Albatross. Currently, the project is in its advanced planning phase, with extensive feasibility studies, logistical preparations, and stakeholder engagement well underway.
The recent $1 million donation from Mark Shuttleworth will help propel the project toward its operational phase, with implementation expected to begin in early 2026. You can learn more about this generous donation at the Mouse-free Marion website.
About the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge Founders
Re:wild
Re:wild protects and restores the wild. We have a singular and powerful focus: the wild as the most effective solution to the interconnected climate, biodiversity and human health crises. Founded by a group of renowned conservation scientists together with Leonardo DiCaprio, Re:wild is a force multiplier that brings together Indigenous peoples, local communities, influential leaders, nongovernmental organizations, governments, companies and the public to protect and rewild at the scale and speed we need.
Island Conservation
Island Conservation is our world’s only international nonprofit conservation organization dedicated solely to preventing extinctions on islands. Our collaborations with local island communities aim to improve livelihoods, manage invasive species, and reintroduce native animals and plant life. Island Conservation is a United States-based 501(c)(3) charitable organization working through diverse local and international partnerships to foster sustainable development, climate resilience, and healthy island-marine ecosystems across the globe.
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego is one of the world’s most important centers for global earth science research and education. In its second century of discovery, Scripps scientists work to understand and protect the planet, and investigate our oceans, Earth, and atmosphere to find solutions to our greatest environmental challenges. Scripps offers unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders through its undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. The institution also operates a fleet of four oceanographic research vessels, and is home to Birch Aquarium at Scripps, the public exploration center that welcomes 500,000 visitors each year.
