Stuff You Should Know Cats: Invasive Species?
May 24, 2022
Dive into the controversial debate over cats as invasive species threatening local ecosystems. Explore the shocking ecological impact of domestic and feral cats and their role in wildlife decline. Learn about alarming statistics, humane population management strategies like trap-neuter-release programs, and the delicate balance between animal welfare and environmental protection. The discussion challenges listeners to consider their affection for these furry companions while acknowledging the pressing need for responsible pet ownership.
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Cat Predation Statistics
- Domestic cats kill billions of birds and mammals annually in the United States.
- They've also contributed to the extinction of 63 species worldwide.
Tibbles the Cat
- Tibbles, a pregnant cat, arrived on Stevens Island in the 1890s.
- Her offspring single-handedly drove the flightless Stevens Island wren to extinction.
Cats and Disease
- Cats are a major vector for rabies, accounting for 61% of cases in domestic animals in 2014.
- They also spread Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite harmful to humans and other animals.