24.11.2025 23:52
In New Zealand, the government's new plan to completely eradicate 2.5 million feral cats by 2050, which causes severe damage to the ecosystem, has ignited a major debate. While the government prepares for a large-scale extermination program, animal rights organizations are calling for a change in the kill-based approach.
The New Zealand government has announced a new plan aimed at completely eradicating feral cats, which cause serious damage to the country's natural ecosystem, by 2050. Conservation Minister Tama Potaka stated that this decision marks the first time a new species has been added to the "Predator Free 2050" strategy, which has been in place since 2016.
"COLD-BLOODED KILLERS" IN THE CROSSHAIRS
Minister Potaka said that feral cats will be evaluated in the same context as species such as weasels, stoats, rats, and possums. Potaka described cats as "cold-blooded killers," announcing that cats that have been controlled in some areas will now be included in coordinated and large-scale extermination programs. A detailed implementation plan is expected to be announced in March 2026.
MAJOR THREAT TO THE ECOSYSTEM
It is estimated that around 2.5 million feral cats live in the country's natural forests and islands. These cats, which can reach up to one meter in length including their tails and weigh up to 7 kilograms, have a devastating impact on native bird and bat species. The Pukunui and South Island dotterel birds on Rakiura Stewart Island are facing the threat of extinction. Additionally, bat populations around Mount Ruapehu have also declined due to hunting by feral cats. Potaka stated, "If we want to increase our biodiversity and protect our natural heritage, we must eliminate these predators."
RESULT OF A LONG-RUNNING CAMPAIGN
The addition of feral cats to the target list came after a long-running campaign process. The "Cats to Go" campaign, initiated by environmentalist Gareth Morgan in 2013, sparked significant debate in the country. Competitions aimed at children to hunt feral cats faced harsh criticism from animal rights advocates. However, the Department of Conservation announced that 90% of the feedback received on the strategy draft was in favor of controlling feral cats.
PET CATS EXCLUDED
Pet cats are not included in the plan; however, they continue to pose a serious threat to biodiversity. New Zealand is among the countries with the highest rates of pet cat ownership in the world, and the regulations regarding cat ownership are quite scattered.
ANIMAL RIGHTS ADVOCATES CONCERNED
SPCA Science Advisor Christine Sumner stated that they understand the damage feral cats cause to the ecosystem, but emphasized that killing is the primary method in the current practice, saying, "We are not happy with this situation. This is the biggest challenge." Organizations are calling for research and funding for more humane control methods.
Animal rights organizations and the National Cat Management Group, which includes Predator Free Trust, advocate for keeping pet cats indoors with the slogan "Every cat in a lap." Additionally, there are calls for national legislation for mandatory spaying and microchipping. Gareth Morgan stated, "The initial exclusion of feral cats from the list was a significant oversight. Now, policy changes are needed to achieve real results."