James Watson blames climate change for the extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys, or mosaic-tailed rat (Melomys rubicola; Nature 534, 437; 2016). In our view, simple management interventions could and should have saved this rodent.

With a population of at most a few hundred and a range limited to a single, small island (less than 5 hectares) that is susceptible to inundation in storm surges, the melomys was already living on the brink of extinction. Yet not an iota of effort was made, or resources committed, to reduce its extreme vulnerability.

Perhaps because the species lacked phylogenetic, cultural or ecological significance, responsible agencies seemed to treat it as inconsequential. A recovery plan developed in 2008 did not include plausible options for captive breeding or for translocation to nearby islands, and was never implemented.

Neglect and inaction caused this extinction — climate change was one of many threats that could have delivered the final blow. Such disregard must not be allowed to drive more extinctions.