The Lord Howe Island Board is pleased to share a positive update on the conservation of the Lord Howe Island Phasmid (Dryococelus australis).

On the night of 5 February 2026, LHIB staff completed an overnight monitoring expedition to Ball's Pyramid, where successful observations of this critically endangered species were recorded at two locations. Targeted weed management was undertaken at the Phasmid tree and other areas to help protect and improve habitat conditions.

Under an approved scientific permit, seven phasmids, including both male and female were collected and will be transferred to Melbourne Zoo to continue making genetic contributions to the captive breeding program, strengthening long-term genetic health and diversity.

This work forms part of long-term conservation efforts led in partnership with Zoos Victoria and the NSW Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Long thought extinct, the Phasmid was rediscovered in 2001 on Ball’s Pyramid and has since become one of the Island’s most remarkable conservation stories. Over more than two decades, habitat protection, captive breeding and careful monitoring have helped safeguard the species.

With Lord Howe Island now rodent-free, conditions are improving for the long-term survival of native species. The Board is beginning early conversations with the community about what the future of the Phasmid could look like and how conservation planning should progress.

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