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New Zealand authorities have added feral cats to the government's "Predator-Free 2050" program, aimed at protecting native wildlife. This was announced by Conservation Minister Tama Potaka.
Feral cats are the first new species added to the program since its launch in 2016. Previously, the list included rats, stoats, ferrets, weasels, and possums. All of these animals are classified as introduced species that pose a threat to local ecosystems, The Guardian reports.
According to research, feral cats kill more than 1,12 million native birds annually. The feral cat population in the country exceeds 2,5 million individuals.
The initiative stems from the unique characteristics of New Zealand's ecosystem, which developed in isolation from mammalian predators. Local bird and animal species have not evolved defense mechanisms against predators.
According to surveys, approximately 90% of the country's residents support the inclusion of feral cats in the control program. Environmental organizations also propose mandatory microchipping and sterilization of domestic cats, as well as recommending that owners confine their pets to the streets.
The “No Predators 2050” program is one of the largest conservation initiatives in the world and aims to preserve the island nation's unique biodiversity.