New Zealand Targets Eradication of 2.5 Million Feral Cats by 2050

New Zealand has announced a bold initiative to eradicate approximately 2.5 million feral cats by the year 2050. This decision represents a pivotal change in the country’s ongoing Predator Free strategy, which aims to safeguard vulnerable native species. Conservation Minister Tama Potaka made the announcement during an interview with Radio New Zealand, characterizing feral cats as “stone cold killers.” He revealed that these animals will now be included on the Predator Free 2050 list, which previously focused on species such as stoats, ferrets, weasels, rats, and possums.

Feral cats have long posed a significant threat to New Zealand’s unique wildlife, particularly its native birds, bats, lizards, and insects. Potaka stated that the government reassessed the impact of feral cats, defining them as wild animals that exist without human dependence. He emphasized, “They kill to survive,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Proposed Eradication Methods and Public Support

To combat the feral cat population, the government is exploring various eradication methods. Proposed strategies include using poisoned sausage bait and deploying tree-mounted devices that spray poison as cats walk past. Potaka noted, “In order to boost biodiversity, to boost heritage landscape, and to boost the type of place we want to see, we’ve got to get rid of some of these killers.”

In a statement released on March 7, 2024, Potaka elaborated on the government’s commitment to enhancing native wildlife. He acknowledged that many New Zealanders desire local reserves, beaches, and bush tracks to be populated by birds rather than predators. The ministry cited troubling instances of damage caused by feral cats, including the deaths of over 100 short-tailed bats in a single week near Ohakune, as well as their role in driving the southern dotterel on Stewart Island towards extinction. Additionally, Potaka pointed out that feral cats spread toxoplasmosis, a disease that can harm dolphins, impact human health, and result in economic losses for farmers due to livestock complications.

Public sentiment strongly favors stronger management of feral cats. The ministry reported that nearly 90% of the 3,400 public submissions received during recent consultations supported such measures. Conservation groups welcomed the decision. Jessi Morgan, chief executive of the Predator Free New Zealand Trust, remarked in The Post that public opinion was overwhelmingly in favor of targeting feral cats. “The response was loud and clear: feral cats belong on the target list,” she stated.

Clarifications on Domestic Cats and Future Plans

While the announcement has generated considerable enthusiasm among conservationists, concerns from pet owners were also addressed. Potaka clarified that the new policy does not extend to domestic cats. “New Zealand is full of proud cat owners, and domestic pets are not part of this Predator Free target,” he assured. He emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, including desexing, microchipping, and keeping cats away from wildlife as part of the broader solution.

More comprehensive details regarding the updated Predator Free 2050 Strategy are anticipated to be released in March 2024. This initiative marks a significant step in New Zealand’s efforts to protect its unique biodiversity and restore the natural balance within its ecosystems.