Feral cats have been a significant problem in Australia for decades, where they pose a major threat to endangered mammals and ecosystems. Dr. Katherine Moseby, a scientist and co-founder of Arid Recovery, a non-profit wildlife sanctuary in South Australia, has highlighted the invasive nature of these predators. Feral cats specialize in eating small mammals within the sanctuary, despite efforts to keep them out with fences requiring regular supervision.
Since European settlers introduced cats to Australia in the late 18th century, at least 34 native mammal species have become extinct. This makes feral cats a major contributor to the worst rate of mammal extinction in the modern world. The Australian government has classified feral cats as national pests and has been engaged in efforts to control their population for decades.
Scientists like Moseby and Read at Arid Recovery are working tirelessly to develop new tools to reduce feral cat numbers and protect native animals. Measures such as specially designed fences, traps, poisoned bait, and snipers have been used with limited success in controlling the high number of ground mice and gophers killed by feral cats. However, research has led to innovative solutions like implanting toxic drugs under the skin of threatened animals to target predatory cats and creating Felixer traps that spray poisonous gel at passing cats.
While some conservation biologists advocate for accepting feral cats as part of Australia’s environment and exploring alternative solutions to protect endangered animals, researchers continue to innovate and implement new strategies to safeguard Australia’s unique ecosystem and precious wildlife. The battle against feral cats is ongoing, but scientists are committed to finding effective measures that will ensure the survival of Australia’s wildlife for generations to come.