Great progress continues with the cat management project, with cat numbers declining, new management approaches being trialed, Bruny Farming taking a major role, and support from the University of Tasmania and the Commonwealth Government continuing.
The report attached details cat occupancy and feeding habitats:
- success in removing both feral and stray cats (122 cats all up!)
- but evidence of rapid re-colonisation following removal
- few cats north of Great Bay
- many cats at the Neck and Whalebone shearwater and little penguin colonies
- greatly increased activity at colonies during breeding season
- widespread although low density of cats in the wetter forests of Southern Bruny
- differences in the success of baits across the different habitats
- limited success in removing ‘trap-shy’ cats
Communtiy engagement, particularly with current cat owners has been high, with Bruny Farming taking a lead role in this, and other activities. This enables a cooperative and harmonious approach, which in turn leads to success in reducing the impact of cats on Bruny’s wildlife.
Citation: Allan, K (2019) Bruny Island Cat Management Project update Feb – July 2019. Kingborough Council