The country plans to eliminate over 2.5 million feral cats under its Predator Free 2050 program to protect native birds, bats, and reptiles from predation.
Feral Cats Added to Predator-Free 2050 List
- New Zealand has officially added feral cats to its Predator Free 2050 program, aiming to remove invasive predators that harm native wildlife.
- Conservation Minister Tama Potaka called feral cats “stone-cold killers,” highlighting the damage they do to native birds, bats, lizards, and insects.
- There are an estimated 2.5 million feral cats roaming New Zealand’s forests and islands.
Why This Action Is Needed
- Feral cats have caused significant harm to native species, pushing some birds and reptiles toward extinction.
- Ground-nesting birds like the southern dotterel and native bats are especially at risk.
- Scientists warn that New Zealand’s wildlife, evolved in isolation, has no natural defense against these predators.
How the Plan Will Work
- Only feral cats living independently of humans will be targeted. Domestic pets will not be affected.
- Authorities will start with test programs using approved bait and traps to control populations.
- Feral cats will join other predators already targeted under the program, such as rats, stoats, possums, and ferrets.
- The plan aims for full eradication by 2050, making New Zealand one of the first countries to attempt such a large-scale predator removal.
Impact on Wildlife and Conservation
- If successful, the program could save endangered species and help restore New Zealand’s natural ecosystems.
- It sets a global example of strong conservation efforts to protect native wildlife from invasive species.
- Experts say human-introduced species, even cats, can have lasting and serious effects on fragile ecosystems.
