By Berk Kutay Gokmen
ISTANBUL (AA) – New Zealand plans to eradicate an estimated 2.5 million feral cats under the 2050 predator target list, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has recently said, according to a government statement.
Jessi Morgan, chief executive of the Predator Free New Zealand Trust, told Radio New Zealand that while the exact number of feral cats in the country remains unknown but “I've seen estimates from two-and-a-half million to 14 million, which basically tells us we've got no idea what those numbers are."
Minister Potaka said that “including feral cats in the Predator Free 2050 goal means stronger protection for local wildlife, better tools for communities, and less impact on farmers," as well as on the economy.
“Feral cats are now found across New Zealand, from farms to forests, and they put huge pressure on native birds, bats, lizards and insects. They also spread toxoplasmosis, which harms dolphins, affects people, and costs farmers through lost stock,” he added.
The statement mentioned that this action aims to safeguard New Zealand’s endangered species by minimizing the harm caused by predators to at-risk wildlife.
It highlighted incidents such as the loss of over 100 short-tailed bats in just one week near Ohakune, as well as the near-extinction of the pukunui/southern dotterel on Rakiura/Stewart Island, as examples of the damage caused by feral cats.
New Zealand's decision came as Thailand recognized Thai cats as a national pet symbol.
The move, approved by Cabinet last week, aims to preserve their heritage and boost economic potential.