Wildlife

Cat Predation on Wildlife: Evidence and Interventions

Domestic and feral cats kill billions of birds and mammals annually; welfare-conscious interventions can substantially reduce this impact.

Key Facts

Domestic cats kill 1.3-4 billion birds annually in the US
Feral cats are responsible for over 30 bird extinctions on islands globally
Bell collars reduce cat predation rates by 41%
Brightly colored collar covers reduce bird predation by 87%

Welfare Considerations

Cats kill birds and small mammals through the same predatory behavior that defines them as hunters — the individual wildlife victims experience fear, injury, and often slow death from wounds. Island bird species evolved without mammalian predators and are particularly vulnerable. Cat welfare and wildlife welfare need not be in conflict with appropriate management.

What You Can Do

Keep cats indoors or in catios especially during breeding season
Fit cats with bell collars or brightly colored collar covers
Support targeted feral cat management in areas with endangered wildlife
Never abandon domestic cats outdoors where they become feral hunters