In New Zealand, cat hunting has faltered

In New Zealand, in the north of Canterbury, the breeding of feral cats – domestic cats that have returned to the wild – is a problem. of the activities of these cats “living independently of humans” They are distinguished from domestic cats and stray cats and have a “Significant impact” wildlife, underscore the press.

In some areas, the population of birds, such as the sack, It has been reduced by almost 80% in ten years. In particular because of these felines, explains the Christchurch Daily In another article.

Who is there to kill as many feral cats as possible? There is only one step that the organizers of the North Canterbury fishing competition have cheerfully taken. Reward at stake, Christchurch daily confirms its headlines “cash for cats” In one of its editions of April 18th.

How do you differentiate between a cat and a cat?

One category of this competition, intended for hunters aged 14 and under – equipped with air rifles – gave over two months, from April 15th to the end of June, to kill as many as possible and win a prize of NZ$250 (€142), with a chance to win a prize. Another of 4,600 New Zealand dollars (2,607 euros).

Firstly Greetings from the locals The initiative was finally the object of protest. In particular, explain the pressbecause opponents expressed concern about it “Most people, especially children, cannot tell the difference between feral cats and domestic cats.” Adviser to the New Zealand Department of the Environment (DOC), Craig Gillis, explained that these differences were “almost impossible” To be created, daily notes.

the press Also quotes a spokesperson for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). In his words, it was the organization “very worried” Through the competition, who can see domestic or stray cats “Caught in the crossfire.”

On the evening of April 17, the organizers of the hunting competition, “incredibly disappointed” Due to the outcry, they announced that they were withdrawing the “Stray Cats” category. According to Craig Gillis, the New Zealand government supports “without any reservations” Reducing the number of cats returned to the wild. But on condition that it is “Entrust to experienced people using humane and approved methods.”