desk
Share
News Topical, Digital Desk : New Zealand has taken a major step to protect the country's fragile and unique wildlife. The government has announced that feral cats will be eradicated from the entire country by 2050.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka called feral cats " stone cold killers, " saying they are being included in the Predator Free 2050 program. The program began in 2016 and has targeted invasive species such as rats, stoats, possums, and ferrets.
Why are feral cats dangerous ?
Feral cats are different from domesticated cats. They live off humans and hunt for food in the wild. This is why they pose a significant threat to rare birds, bats, lizards, and insects.
Many New Zealand species are found only there in the world, so the government considers their conservation vital. Feral cats have already come close to eliminating many rare species. For example, the pukunui on Stewart Island is near extinction.
Who are feral cats hunting ?
Meanwhile, in the Ohakune region, over 100 short-tailed bats fell prey to feral cats in a single week. More than 2.5 million short-tailed bats live in the country's forests and islands. These cats can grow up to 1 meter long and weigh up to 7 kilograms, including their tails.
Minister Potaka explained that feral cats not only hunt but also spread diseases. They carry an infection called toxoplasmosis, which can harm dolphins, humans, and livestock, and cause economic losses to farmers. He clarified that pet cats are not part of this plan, as people in the country love their cats very much.
How will feral cats be eradicated ?
Currently, the Department of Conservation ( DOC) is testing meat-based baits to control feral cats. They will first use non-poisonous baits, followed by baits laced with the toxic chemical 1080, which is also used for pest control. However, this method is controversial because it may harm other animals.
Read More: Sam Altman rejects HSBC's prediction that 'OpenAI will not be profitable by 2030'
--Advertisement--
