Roaming cats 'split' town as concerns grow for native wildlife

Concerns are mounting over the impact of roaming and feral cats on Tasmania's native wildlife. A feeding station was recently discovered in a native garden, while authorities are working to remove 90 cats from a single property. The Tasmanian government is set to release a new cat management plan, following the receipt of over 500 public submissions.

Androo Kelly, who has dedicated his life to preserving Tasmania's native wildlife, has witnessed record numbers of feral and roaming cats threaten species such as potoroos, bettongs, quolls, and bandicoots. The eastern quoll, once prevalent in the region, has reportedly vanished entirely. Local resident and director of the Pulawini Aboriginal Corporation, Darlene Mansell, expressed outrage over a cat feeding station found in a native garden near Mole Creek.

The council acted swiftly to remove the feeding station after receiving a report from Biosecurity Tasmania. However, the issue of roaming cats continues to divide the community, with some residents advocating for stricter containment measures while others argue against the potential negative impacts on cat welfare. Just Cats Tasmania, a cat welfare organization, has been overwhelmed with 300 to 400 cats in need of care, facing financial constraints to continue their operations.

Toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection spread through cats, has also posed significant risks to Tasmania's livestock industry. The Tasmanian government is currently revising its cat management plan, which has been in place since 2017. Advocates are calling for stronger containment measures for pet cats, citing the devastating impact of roaming cats on native wildlife and livestock.