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Animals Left Behind Thrive After Island Volcano Eruption
27 Oct
Summary
- Island residents evacuated in 1961 due to volcanic activity.
- A scientific expedition studied the volcano and its impact in 1962.
- Left-behind farm animals survived and thrived during the evacuation period.
In August 1961, a volcanic stirring on Tristan da Cunha prompted the evacuation of its 264 residents. The community was relocated to England, unsure of their return. By October, a lava dome had formed near their village, Edinburgh of the Seven Seas. This remote South Atlantic island, accessible only by sea, experienced tremors throughout September, leading to the urgent departure of its inhabitants.
A scientific expedition led by Ian Gass arrived in late January 1962 to study the volcano's effects. The team found that while the volcanic activity had caused damage, including the destruction of the canning factory, most of the settlement remained intact. Crucially, the farm animals and pets left behind had survived in significant numbers.
Approximately 200 cattle and several herds were found thriving months after the evacuation. This survival of the unattended livestock was a hopeful sign for the islanders. However, concerns were raised about the potential threat to the island's unique wildlife from rats, feral cats, and abandoned livestock. Measures to control these populations were deemed necessary.
Encouraged by the expedition's findings, a resettlement party returned in September 1962 to begin repairs. By 1963, most of the displaced islanders had returned home. Although the volcano still showed signs of activity with gases steaming from the crater, its power was waning, making a return to their community safe.
