Killer kitties: cats are eating 2,000 species, including hundreds that are at risk
www.theguardian.com
The first study to quantify what our felines eat on a global scale finds they have a significant impact on wildlife

[A study] show[s] [that domestic cats] eat more than 2,000 species globally – including hundreds that are of conservation concern.

“Our study sheds light on the predatory habits of one of the world’s most successful and widely distributed invasive predators,” the researchers, led by Christopher Lepczyk from Auburn University in the US, wrote in the paper.

  • jarfil@beehaw.org
    17·
    1 year ago

    Once upon a time, a parakeet landed on the terrace… only to get promptly surrounded by 6 housecats. I managed to run out and shoo them away (not easy, had to actually push some with a broom), pick the parakeet and throw it out… but a few minutes later, it came back, and landed on the terrace again. This time the cats were faster, and got to it before I could.

    Later I found out, that parakeets are an invasive species where I live, so… that turned out for the best? 😅

      • jarfil@beehaw.org
        1·
        1 year ago

        https://mappingspain.com/the-exotic-green-parrots-of-spain/

        It is estimated that there are 200,000 Monk Parakeets in Spain and they are considered an invasive species

        Just come and get them… how many thousands would you like?

        We also have some 5 million bunnies, with about a million or so getting culled every year. They aren’t an invasive species, but since agriculture has tended to create massive fields without a tree or as much as a post for birds of prey to sit on, the bunnies multiply and spread out of control, tunneling under roads, bullet train railroads, and invading city outskirts (they have no regard for fences).