Six Queensland islands closed to remove rat infestation

Islands in far north Queensland have been closed as authorities work to remove an infestation of black rats.

File image of a black rat. Source: AAP

Six far north Queensland islands will be closed as authorities work to control an infestation of rats which have been harming wildlife.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service officers will carry out a pest control program to remove black rats from the Frankland Islands and Southern Barnard Islands, near Cairns, from Monday.

"The control of black rats on these islands is a high priority (and) will play a significant role in restoring valuable seabird nesting habitat in the area," a Department of Environment and Science spokesperson said in a statement.