Glovebox Guide for Managing Feral Cats

GLOVEBOX GUIDE FOR MANAGING FERAL CATS

Part of the

publication series Website: www.pestsmart.org.au Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication has been prepared with care and is Contents This publication is licensed under a Creative based on knowledge and understanding at the Commons Attribution 4.0 International license, time of writing (2020). Some of the information except for photographic and graphical images in this document is provided by third parties, contained within it. Photographs and other and all information is provided “as is”, without About this guide...... 4 graphical material must not be acquired, warranty of any kind, to the extent permitted stored, copied, displayed and printed or by law. After publication, circumstances may LEARN...... 6 otherwise reproduced — including by electronic change and before relying on this information means — for any purpose unless prior written the user needs to take care to update as PLAN...... 12 permission has been obtained from the necessary. copyright owner. Copyright of photographs MONITOR...... 14 and other graphical material is variously NO PRODUCT PREFERENCES: The product owned by Invasive Animals Ltd, individuals trade names in this publication are supplied on MANAGE...... 19 and corporate entities. For further details, the understanding that no preference between please contact the Communications Manager, equivalent products is intended and that the IMPROVE...... 25 Invasive Animals Ltd. The Creative Commons inclusion of a product name does not imply Attribution 4.0 International license allows you endorsement over any equivalent product Extra information...... 25 to copy, distribute, transmit and adapt material from another manufacturer. in this publication, subject to the exception for Further reading...... 44 ALWAYS READ THE LABEL: Users of photographic and other graphic material set agricultural or veterinary chemical products out above, and provided you attribute the work must always read the label and any permit, as shown below. The license does not transfer before using a product, and must strictly ownership of the copyright. A summary of the comply with the directions on the label and license terms is at: https:// creativecommons. the conditions of any permit. Users are not org/licenses/by/4.0/ absolved from compliance with the directions © Invasive Animals Ltd on the label or the conditions of the permit by reason of any statement made or not made in Citation: Johnston, M. and Algar, D (2020). this publication. Glovebox Guide for Managing Feral Cats. PestSmart Toolkit publication. The Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, Canberra, ACT

At the time of writing this publication Mr Michael Johnston was a consultant for Scientec Research Pty Ltd and Dr Dave Algar was employed by the WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions

Print ISBN: 978-1-925727-25-8 Web ISBN: 978-1-925727-24-1

Published by: The Centre for Invasive Species Solutions

The Centre for Invasive Species Solutions gratefully acknowledges the funding support for the publication of this document through the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. This project is also supported by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

Feral cat on Christmas Island. Image by Michael Johnston.

2 3 About this guide

This Glovebox Guide for Managing Since the late 1970’s, there has Feral Cats is a general guide to been a growing understanding provide background information of feral cat impacts on populations to support the control of feral cat of native wildlife and agricultural populations in Australia. This guide livestock through predation and adopts the definition of ‘feral cat’ disease. Estimates of the annual as those that live and reproduce in predation impact by feral cats on the wild (e.g. forests, woodlands, Australian native wildlife suggest grasslands, deserts) and survive by 272 million birds, 470 million hunting or scavenging; none of their reptiles, 815 million mammals needs are satisfied intentionally are killed with additional losses by humans. It is recognised that of invertebrates and amphibians. this categorisation of life cycles is However, native wildlife populations artificial and that individual cats may are also impacted by other factors Feral cat and Lewin’s Rail – French Island. Image by Michael Johnston. transition between classes, such including habitat disturbance, as stray and domestic, throughout changed fire regime and climate This guide seeks to enable best This glovebox guide does not their lifecycle. However, these other change. Ongoing research questions practice feral cat management by cover all the details of feral cat classes are not considered in this remain to understand the resilience providing current, albeit broadly management, so consideration guide unless specifically mentioned. of native wildlife populations in applicable, information on: should be given to enrolment in response to the combination of recognised pest management Feral cats present a significant these factors relative to that of feral cat ecology; courses. environmental impact and there native and invasive predatory identifying feral cats; is growing evidence of economic species. For more information on feral impacts to agricultural enterprises. identifying impacts of feral cat management visit National, State and Territory cats; www.pestsmart.org.au government agencies have prepared The rapid colonisation of the All the reference material used policy, plans and procedural feral cat control in Australian mainland and Tasmania to create this glovebox guide is documents to mitigate threats the presence of other by feral cats originated from multiple provided in the back of this guide. locations but was considered to be and impacts from feral cats. The predators; regulatory environment is evolving 90% complete by 1890. Straying management tools and and as such it is expected that domestic cats from dwellings strategies; or vessels as well as deliberate there will be new laws, control introductions or abandonments tools and strategies that affect the safety to domestic animals; were recorded in journals of the management of feral cat populations and time. being implemented into the future. policy and legislation.

4 5 LEARN Distribution and abundance Habitat Description Established populations of feral cats Feral cats are highly adaptable are present over 99.8% of Australian and maintain viable populations Taxonomic names: terrestrial environments, including across the range of habitats within Felis catus (Linnaeus, 1758) many offshore islands. Populations Australia. This includes alpine

have been eradicated on islands, landscapes along the Great Dividing Common names: which has supported recovery Range, tall temperate forest, Feral cat, Wild cat of extant wildlife species or savannah grasslands, oceanic islands translocation of species from other in the tropics through to the arid locations. On the mainland, there zone. is an increasing number of fenced ‘havens’ where invasive predators A kitten presented with prey by its mother, French Island. have been removed to provide Image by Michael Johnston. Ecology refuges for specific wildlife species. These areas are necessarily limited Description Pathways of Spread in size and scale relative to the Feral cats are the same species Cats accompanied Europeans former distribution of the species as domestic cats, but may appear as they colonised Australia from that they protect. taller and heavier given the greater multiple locations between 1824–86, National estimates of feral cat muscle definition resulting from with cats being recorded over populations range between 1.4 – 5.6 their active life history. Feral cats most of the mainland by 1890. The million individuals with population can have a variety of coat colours. founders of feral cat populations densities varying with environmental Tabby, black or ginger are the are likely to have come from factors reflecting the impact that most common with other types straying or abandoned domestic rainfall or drought has on prey occurring with hybrid patterns of cats with populations on islands resources. black and white, tortoiseshell and established either to fulfil the role as ‘fancy breeds’ indicating a more companions and rodent controllers, recent link to a source population or following shipwrecks. of domestic cats. Typical adult body weights are between 2.0 – 4.5 kg, but Cats were also intentionally traded heavier individuals of up to ~6 kg are and released in attempts to manage commonly reported. rabbit populations. The introduction of cats by Makassan traders prior to arrival of Europeans is also plausible although more recent genetic studies suggest that European breeds became established prior Feral cat in snow. Image by Parks Victoria. to Asian breeds. Feral cat in tall, wet forest. Image by Matt Rees.

Feral cat in arid zone. Image by Emma Spencer.

6 7 Nutrition Reproduction Lifecycle Stages Feral cats are generalist carnivores Kittens are fully dependent on with over 400 vertebrate prey their mother’s milk for the first Males have larger home species recorded from Australian three weeks of life with live prey ranges than females Female cats can come sites. Recent estimates by the being offered by the mother from and seek as many Threatened Species Recovery Hub into season multiple four weeks coinciding with eruption mating opportunities as suggest that this translates to 1,645 times annually and of teeth. Weaning is generally at possible. million individual animals across may mate with multiple or about seven weeks. Adult teeth reptile, frog, bird and mammal males. are fully present by seven months. species being preyed upon each Mortality of kittens can be high due year. Invertebrate species are also to predation, disease, misadventure 2 commonly consumed. Dietary or limitations in availability of food Home range sizes were 2.46 km 2 studies have demonstrated that feral They can breed from seven months resources. Kittens will be left in cover for female and 5.10 km for males cats will exploit the food resources of age although females may enter while the mother hunts with prey averaged from data collected at 47 that are available and can switch their first oestrus at up to 12 months offered to the kitten(s) for training Australian and international sites. rapidly in response to changing prey of age in feral populations with purposes (see Biological and behavioural availability. Reductions in preferred births more frequently reported https://youtu.be/KqKInhW0DHc). weaknesses prey can be exploited to optimise between September and March the efficacy of baiting programs. in south-east Australia. The The dispersal of young cats is Australia does not have any native European rabbits form a dietary non-breeding period is shorter not clearly understood; however, members of the cat family, Felidae. staple in many areas, but this does in warm semi-arid sites compared dispersal cannot occur before A number of transmissible diseases not ‘control’ rabbit populations. to cooler temperate areas. the permanent canine teeth have are present within the domestic cat Cats predominantly use visual and erupted, which commences three population, including toxoplasmosis, Pregnant feral cats in the semi- audible cues to trigger hunting and a half months after birth. feline enteritis, feline leukaemia arid zone were found to typically behaviours but will also consume Females rarely venture as far afield virus and cat flu. carry four embryos. Litter size carrion, i.e. scavenged carcasses as males, often establishing a home post-weaning is expected to vary The relationship with other large from roadkill or other sources and range close to that of their mother. according to availability of prey predators in Australia, such as meat baits. Yearling/subordinate males tend to resource with two–three kittens remain within their natal range until foxes and wild dog/dingoes is being commonly observed. they are old and strong enough to unclear other than that there is establish a home range themselves. evidence that feral cats are predated As they grow, they come under opportunistically. Similarly, native increasing attack from older males predators including eagles, goannas and in their second year they usually and pythons are known to take cats, disperse. particularly younger animals. The introduction of other predators will not necessarily lead to improved control of feral cat populations.

8 9 Impacts Social Discussion of feral cat control can impact on cats to a greater Economic Environmental create heated debate amongst the extent than the species impacted. It is difficult to place a dollar value Feral cats are recognised community. The strong affinity for Nonetheless, the techniques used to on the economic impact of feral cats internationally as having direct cats as pets can lead some people manage feral cat populations should as these are heavily biased towards predation impacts on wildlife to find it difficult to understand the be as humane as possible. mitigating environmental impacts as populations. Broadscale scale of impacts caused by feral cats. compared to financial losses to the decline of Australian wildlife The discussion can also be clouded agricultural sector. Recent studies populations, particularly within by the spectrum of understandings have estimated annual losses of $12 the small and medium-sized of the term ‘feral cat’ that ranges million to the grazing industry due mammals, have been well from roaming domestic cats to those to cat-mediated parasites along with documented and with cats cats that fit within the definition an annual $6 billion impact in human considered to have contributed used in this guide. Animal welfare health associated with diseases such to the extinction of 25 of the 30 issues and animal rights also as cat scratch fever, toxoplasma and native Australian mammal species. feature in the broader discussion sarcosporidiosis Devastating impacts on reptiles, about management of pest animals amphibians, invertebrates and birds although this is more commonly Feral cats create an opportunity cost have been summarised in a recent in relation to perceptions about whereby the value of the investment series of studies. directed into pest control is not available for other end uses. The There is also a growing majority of feral cat impact is on understanding of impacts associated wildlife species that are difficult with disease transmission, to place a direct dollar value on. particularly toxoplasmosis as well However, there are many examples as competition for food resources. of the Australian community’s Cats shed toxoplasma oocysts in support for undertaking work to their faeces, which are inadvertently mitigate the impact that feral cats consumed by terrestrial and create with philanthropic donations marine wildlife species that may to private wildlife conservation subsequently develop toxoplasmosis organisations or eradication leading to physiological and programs, e.g. Tasman Island behavioural changes. (TAS). Government agencies have responded to these community calls for greater wildlife protections by improving the policy framework and directing investment into ecological restoration programs, termed as ‘safe havens’ on islands

and within fenced exclosures. Feral cat eating a wallaby carcass. Image by Joe Scanlan.

10 11 Check the laws and guidance for your state or territory, including those that PLAN address the humane treatment of all animals. Identifying feral cats and their impacts We recommend following the six step pest animal adaptive management framework Detecting the presence of feral Distinguishing between feral cats and their impacts cat, fox, dog and quoll tracks It is common for feral cats to be Differentiation between the PLAN present, but not seen, and for footprints of feral cats and other their presence to go unnoticed in species, such as wild dogs and foxes, 1. Assess and understand the problem bushland areas due to their cryptic can be confounded by weathering behaviours, minimal vocalisations or unsuitable soils. The key 2. Develop a plan and set clear objectives and avoidance of interactions distinguishing feature to separate with humans. Traditional methods cats from that of canids and quolls for detecting feral cats relied on is the absence of claw marks, MANAGE detecting footprints in sand surfaces, reflecting the typical ‘retracted claw’ spotlight searches or opportunistic state that cats use when walking. 3. Choose control techniques and PLAN observations of cats or their prey Cat prints also appear to be almost strategies and implement remains. circular compared to other species.

4. Monitor the outcomes of your 1. 2. plan ASSESS DEVELOP

IMPROVE 6. BUILDING 3. MODIFY CAPACITY ACT

5. Evaluate the plan – did you

meet your objectives? E

A V

N O

R 5. 4. G

6. Modify as required and repeat P

M EVALUATE MONITOR as necessary I WILD DOG FOX QUOLL CAT WILD DOG FOX CAT Figure 1 – The relative size and shape of Figure 2 – Usual foot print placement for wild dog, fox, quoll and cat tracks (top row wild dogs, foxes and cats. shows front foot and bottom row shows Use FeralCatScan to record back foot). and map feral cat sightings, damage and control activities. Only public data recorded is available to the community, to help decide where to undertake control, 12 and coordinate with 13 neighbours. Broadscale use of trail cameras Most Australian GPS collaring MONITORING Track counts provide insights into the presence, studies conducted to date have Daily cat activity counts can behaviour and prey of feral cats that required cats to be recaptured to Monitoring is undertaken to be conducted in sites with an can support i) better population remove the collar and access the determine the presence of feral extensive network of sandy tracks. estimates, ii) identification of data, which can be difficult due to cats at a site or to measure the A clean surface is created by towing individuals, iii) behaviour and iv) trap shyness. Collars with satellite effectiveness of control operations a heavy drag behind a vehicle. Tracks monitoring the outcomes of control uplinks have demonstrated long- by monitoring the population prior are inspected for cat footprints each operations. range movements in excess of to and following the work. The morning. To reduce the possibility 100 km over a period of weeks results achieved can vary according Researchers have also benefited of double counting, footprints are by individual feral cats - https:// to the technique chosen. None of from technological advances that assigned to an individual cat if no youtu.be/v8DB7tr8NcA?t=1197. the monitoring techniques described has supported use of GPS tracking other footprints are present on at Owners of domestic cats have been here provide a 100% accurate technologies that provide detailed least the previous 1 km of track. directly involved in documenting the understanding of the feral cat information on individual cats over Each time new cat footprints are roaming by their pets using low-cost population in an area and the use time. These devices permit the study encountered along the track, data GPS devices. of multiple techniques of feral cat activity and movement is recorded on the direction of is encouraged. with locations being recorded at movement (i.e. whether the animal intensive intervals, i.e. 5 minute Sand pads walked along the track or crossed it), or more broadly across months. distance of the footprints from the Construction and servicing of sand start of the track, approximate size pad arrays can provide data on the of imprints and whether more than presence of feral cats within a site. one animal was present. Sand pads can be formed from local raked soils or by clean sand brought Cameras into the site. Sand pads should be spaced at intervals of a minimum Trail cameras can be used to of 500 m to reduce repeat counts. measure cat presence along trails Counts of cats crossing the sand or at randomised locations across pads can be compared prior to and the landscape. Scent lures, such as following control operations. While cat urine or anal gland can be used sand pads do not influence the but are not necessary on track align- cat’s behaviour, it can be difficult to ments. Visual lures have also been discern the presence of multiple cats used to promote investigation of site that cross the surface, or support by feral cats. Consideration should the collection of information about be given prior to use of food lures whether individuals are resident or as these may increase the predation recently arrived in the area. hazard to wildlife species.

GPS collar data from feral cats on Dirk Hartog Island. Image by Dave Algar.

14 15 Population density estimates can be installed in the arrangement to Detection Dogs Spotlight search be derived using camera detections best trigger on cats. Alternatively, The principle of trained ‘sniffer’ dogs Counts of feral cats, along with of cats and then using statistical a downwards-facing camera can for use in border and quarantine other species, may be conducted analysis techniques. provide a uniform view of cats as services is well established. Similarly, from slow-moving vehicle along they pass under the lens. However, trained dogs can also be used to pre-defined survey transects The accuracy of population density this format typically provides a more confirm the presence of feral cats driven at night. The observer uses estimates can be reduced by limited field of view and requires by identification of scats as well a high brilliance spotlight and/or several factors including motion the cat to be directed under the as detecting and following fresh appropriate thermal sensor to detect blur compromising the confident camera. Further information is scent trails. Dogs may also be used animals along the transect. Optimal identification of tabby cats. The available at https://pestsmart.org.au/ to support capture and shooting counts are achieved when observers prevalence of black cats at the site pest-animals/monitor-techniques/. and overexposure of night-time attempts in suitable habitats. The can operate from an elevated photos of ginger coloured cats expense associated with the training position in the vehicle. The driver also reduces accuracy. and husbandry of conservation needs to be familiar with the route dogs and their handlers tends to to minimise overhead and on-track The noise and flash illumination limit the use of this tool to high hazards. Spotlight surveys should associated with camera operation Theft and vandalism value research projects, island be replicated at the same time over are readily detected by feral cats and of trail cameras is a restoration and eradication three or more evenings to generate may alternately provoke a startle common and expensive programs. Further information is an average number of detections response or approach for closer problem that affects available from the Australasian per kilometre of transect length. investigation. In rare circumstances, the accuracy of the Conservation Dog Network https:// The procedures used are the same feral cats have been observed monitoring programs conservationdognetwork.com.au/. as those used for monitoring to avoid cameras evidenced by footprints in sand approaching and particularly when deviating around the camera site. targeting small-medium Deciding on an accurate and efficient sized animals such as data curation procedure generated feral cats. from trail camera surveys is important at the start of the survey.

The cameras should be mounted horizontally, as opposed to angled 45°, as this allows for a greater field of view and a trigger zone of predictable shape. Check to see whether the camera manual provides information on trigger zones to ensure the camera can

Detector dog sitting in the ‘focussed response’ position where a cat scat was located. Image by Michael Johnston. 16 17 of other species such as red foxes, ‘channel’ that runs parallel to the Site-specific indices Incidental Observations see https://pestsmart.org.au/wp- direction of the track. The stakes are Development of monitoring Landholders and community content/uploads/sites/3/2020/06/ pressed into the ground so that they techniques specific to certain sites members are able to record Monitoring-techniques-for- are ~60 cm high and positioned in enables collection of data on the sightings of feral cats and other vertebrate-pests-foxes.pdf. the ground at an angle so that they success of control operations. species using the FeralScan app. Spotlighting may not be suitable spread out as they rise, being 7 cm As an example, counts of wing The package provides a community for all areas due to tall grass or other apart at the base and expanding pairs within defined plots was used mapping resource that can centralise vegetation that limits detection of to 12 – 15 cm apart at the top. The to index predation of seabirds on pest animal data management animals on the ground. Note that stakes are covered with double- Tasman Island. Feral cats killed across multiple species as well feral cats may also be detected sided adhesive tape (Stylus, 40 mm seabirds each night as they roosted as generating activity reports in trees during spotlight surveys. ‘740’) to capture hair as the cat walks on the island. Repeated clearing and for specific areas. The results are also influenced by through the channel. Collected hair counts of the prey provided a useful behavioural traits where individuals is removed with sterilised forceps index for presence and activity of may have become ‘spotlight-shy’ and sealed inside a paper envelope. feral cats at this site. or are subject to other social or This is then placed within a ziplock seasonal factors. plastic bag and stored in a freezer to reduce DNA degradation. Sites DNA-based identification of should be serviced daily, including individuals freshening the collection surface The use of a non-invasive hair to reduce potential for ‘capture’ of snare may also be used to estimate multiple cats which complicates the population size as it allows the analysis. Arrangements with a for identification of individuals suitably qualified genetics laboratory regardless of their colour. A ‘Sticky should be made prior to embarking Wicket’ technique uses three timber on such an approach. stakes situated at the end of a Hair snares can also be constructed from coarse wooden stakes or wire brushes and treated with a suitable scent lure.

Sticky Wicket installation. Image by Neil Hamilton. Wire Brush hair. Image by Michael Johnston. FeralScan website and app. Image supplied by Peter West.

18 19 MANAGE encapsulated pellet. Encapsulation locations where traps may be placed. to ensure reliable operation and reduces exposure of wildlife species Traps should be fitted with a cover minimisation of injury to trapped Tools to Control to the toxin, while the use of the to protect captured animals from animals. Detailed procedures on Feral Cats PAPP toxin provides a degree of the weather. Prepare the trap site the use of leghold traps for capture species selectivity. Curiosity® is such that the traps do not wobble of feral cats are provided at https:// Poison baiting registered nationally, but there and confirm that moving parts of pestsmart.org.au/toolkit-resource/ are limits on use stipulated to the trap operate smoothly. Detailed trapping-of-feral-cats-using-padded- Broadscale control of feral cats further minimise exposure of wildlife procedures on the use of cage traps jaw-traps/ can be achieved using poisoned species. Additional bait products are can be found at: https://pestsmart. meat baits applied at appropriate currently under development or are org.au/toolkit-resource/trapping-of- Grooming trap (permit times when prey resources are less subject to limited use under permit. feral-cats-using-cage-traps/. required) available, nominally early winter The ‘Felixer’ device exploits cats’ in southern Australia and the end Proposals to undertake poison Padded leghold trapping innate grooming behaviour by of the dry season in northern baiting programs are reviewed Legislative support for the use rapidly propelling a gel containing Australia. Aerial baiting provides by government agencies prior to of rubber-padded leghold traps a toxicant onto the cat as it walks greater opportunity for feral cats purchase of baits being granted. to capture feral cats exists in some in front of the sensor array. They to encounter baits than trail baiting Procedures of how to purchase baits jurisdictions. The traps are also are typically installed on the edge operations. There is no known are provided as part of this review used by researchers to capture of tracks or barrier fences to remove advantage in provision of non- process. feral cats following these alignments. toxic free-feed baits prior to use feral cats for use in scientific study A series of audio lures, such as bird of toxic baits, however, this can be Cage trapping or eradication programs on islands. These traps are capable of capturing calls, can be played from the device undertaken to assess the potential These devices have broad a greater proportion of feral cats to call animals into the site. Lasers for exposure of non-target species. community support for trapping given that neophobic cats are more are used to interpret the height, of feral cats and are commonly Two bait products are currently likely to enter the ‘set’ given that shape and pace of animals. A series used with a food lure of fried registered by the Australian the trap is concealed. Olfactory or of conditions are then employed to chicken, tinned fish or rabbit pieces. Government for feral cat control, visual lures are commonly used in lock out the device in the presence ® ® being Eradicat and Curiosity with Cage traps can be effective at preference to food lures. Traps will of non-target species, including 2 application rates of 50 baits per km . capturing a proportion of feral cats, benefit from preparation prior to domestic animals that had been ® The Eradicat bait is a kangaroo commonly the inexperienced or first use (see video -https://youtu. fitted with a specific tag. meat and chicken fat sausage that poor hunters however, there will be/sszOh49Z0jY) and maintenance, is directly injected with 4.5 mg 1080. be a proportion of cats that will not including replacement of rubbers, It is only for use within Western enter the devices. Australia to control feral cats on conservation estate and at other A plan to deal with the captured sites under permission from the cats and non-target species must Western Australian Government be in place prior to installing cage but national registration is being traps, including how to treat non- pursued. The Curiosity® bait uses target species that sustain an a similar meat sausage and delivers injury. Ensure that local regulations 78 mg PAPP toxin in a robust are followed with respect to the Felixer device, annotated photo showing sensors with a bettong and lasers detecting a feral cat. Image by Thylation.com. 20 21 Fencing Expert Tracking Working with people

Exclusion fencing to protect wildlife Hunting feral cats on foot is The intentional release of cats into and tool choice may be warranted species from invasive predators practised by Indigenous tracking bushland areas in the expectation to account for new information, have been established at twenty- experts in some arid zone that this will manage rabbit changed regulation or environmental eight sites across Australia covering communities to protect threatened populations has been consigned to factors that impact delivery of the 594 km2. Large containment areas wildlife populations. Cat prints are history. Feral cat populations are operation. such as the Arid Recovery Project, identified and followed through the self-sustaining but may occasionally Roxby Downs foster the conduct landscape until the cat is located and be bolstered by stray or abandoned Choosing the right control tool of research into the ecological killed by blunt trauma euthanasia. domestic cats. The community The most effective approach is an functions of wildlife as well as can contribute towards reducing ‘integrated approach’ that usually the interaction between native Strategies to control this by adopting the principles of involves the progressive use of and invasive species. costs for feral cats Responsible Pet Ownership by a range of tools, i.e. not relying barrier fences vary according to sterilising their domestic cats and on just one tool. The table below the complexity of the topography, Working with Nature containing pets on their property. outlines some of the basic pros vegetation, freight and labour costs Land managers considering A key benefit to cat owners is that and cons of common control tools. with recent examples estimated at implementing a feral cat control their pets are likely to have longer The advantages and disadvantages ~$40,000/km on Dudley Peninsula, program need to give particular and healthier lives and reduced described might be different for Kangaroo Island and ~$60,000/km in consideration to the timing of impact on wildlife populations. each situation. Local knowledge the Pilliga, NSW. Designs commonly activities. This necessarily includes and consultation will help determine incorporate a 1.8 m mesh barrier how seasonal factors will affect the Adaptive management the best tools for use in a given with a floppy top overhang. Electrical operational efficacy with respect An adaptive approach to monitoring situation. Note that some control hotwires may also be added to to the ranging and breeding and managing feral cat populations tools might not be permitted in the barrier. Routine and regular behaviour of cats as well as activity is required to achieve operational certain areas (see page 24). maintenance of fences is critical to of non-target species. In particular, objectives. Changes in approach capitalise on the investment in the an abundance of alternate prey will fence construction. reduce bait consumption by feral cats and may also lead to greater Shooting potential for bait competition and Shooting is highly target-specific consumption by wildlife species. and can be used to remove feral Capture of seasonally active cats from discrete areas but is less non-target species such as reptiles suited for reducing impacts across is common if using food lures in broadscale areas. Skilled shooters traps in warmer months. can be engaged to remove feral cats in sites where the vegetation Land stewardship practices with supports this. Shooting is most respect to retention of complex frequently undertaken at night habitat, livestock grazing and using spotlights and/or thermal burning regimes can also influence sensors. Feral cats may be attracted feral cat impacts on native wildlife. into the range of shooters by using Sterilising pet cat in a remote community. Image by Kiwirrkurra IPA / AMRRIC. a rabbit whistle in the same manner 22 as used for foxes. 23 Table 1: Pros and Cons of currently available feral cat control tools

CONTROL CONTROL ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES COMMON USES ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES COMMON USES TOOL TOOL 1080 Baiting • Can be applied on a • Restricted use in peri-urban • Used predominantly Soft-jawed • As for cage • Greater skill required to • Used in eradication and (Eradicat) broadscale by vehicle areas. within Western leghold trapping. prepare trap sets. research programs. or aircraft. Australia for trapping • Hazardous to domestic conservation • Concealed traps • Injury to non-target • Low cost with respect animals and some wildlife. programs. are better able to captures is possible. to area treated. No antidote. capture a greater proportion of cats. • Requires relatively • Perceptions of welfare little time. impact on poisoned animals. • Can be applied on a • Reduced efficacy when Exclusion • Is capable of • Relatively expensive to • Protecting high value broadscale basis by alternative prey resources fencing excluding feral cats construct and maintain. populations of wildlife vehicle or aircraft. are abundant. from an area. in ecological restoration • Still requires removal of programs. PAPP baiting • Can be applied on a • Restricted use in peri-urban • Used within feral cats from within (Curiosity) broadscale by vehicle areas. conservation fenced area. or aircraft. programs in SE • Hazardous to domestic Australia where state/ • Limits movement of • Low cost with respect animals and some wildlife. territory governments other wildlife. to area treated. A veterinarian may be permit. able to treat accidentally • Requires relatively poisoned animal. little time. Shooting • Selective and target- • Limited population • Commonly used in • Reduced efficacy when specific. reduction in large sites. conjunction with trapping • Encapsulated toxin programs. alternative prey resources • May be suitable • Vegetation can reduce reduces exposure of are abundant. wildlife species. for areas where efficacy. • Is used to target specific other tools are not individual cats. • Improved animal appropriate. • High level technical welfare outcome on ability and local poisoned animal. • Can confirm the knowledge. identity of individual • Can be applied on a animals. • High labour investment. broadscale basis by • Restricted use where vehicle or aircraft. domestic cats are Cage • Can be used in • A proportion of feral cats will • Commonly used in present trapping peri-urban areas not enter cage traps. areas with proximity Felixer • Selective and target • Secure sites may be • Undergoing development where baiting is not to people. specific. required to ensure the and optimisation. appropriate (permit poison is inaccessible. required) • Sentinel control • Currently used under • Domestic animals tool capable of • Relatively expensive research permits. and non-target removing multiple - cost associated with species can be feral cats. lease of unit. released. • Domestic animals • Limited population • Can confirm removal can wear a tag reduction in large sites. of specific animals. that locks out the • Enables a relatively gel propulsion quick and humane mechanism. death when trap • Does not require checked. skilled labour. Indigenous • Selective and target- • Requires suitable sand / soil expert specific surface tracking • Social, health and • Only useful for localised cultural benefits control 24 • Requires expert 25 interpretation of footprints IMPROVE EXTRA INFORMATION programs, and to pursue the development of a national best When evaluating your plan at the Hazard Mitigation practice approach to the keeping end of the year/season, consider the of domestic cats. following questions: Risks to Domestic Animals Each State and Territory has how well did the plan work? Feral cat control programs using regulations governing the poison baits and traps can impact requirement for land managers what features worked and on domestic animals within and to undertake feral cat control. why? adjoining the management zone. Similarly, the control tools available Notification of landowners within what features did not work to land managers differ between and adjoining the site must occur and why not? land tenures in some jurisdictions. ahead of the start of the program. Land managers and their agents did the operation cost more Individual State and Territory must familiarise themselves with or less than expected? governments have specified the specific requirements applicable notification periods and signage to their intended operation prior could money be spent more requirements. to beginning work. The relevant effectively next time? regulations may include animal Conservation and detection welfare, chemical handling, use what could be changed to dog handlers must maintain an of firearms, aircraft operation, make the plan work better awareness of the hazards to their agriculture and protected areas next time? dogs at each site including snakes, management, threatened species, heat stress, cliff edges, etc. as well Modify the management, monitoring domestic animals and biosecurity. as presence of control tools such or community engagement plan if as traps and baits. required. Repeat the process until The Threat Abatement Plan for the planning process is the best it Policy and Legislation Predation by Feral Cats (2015) can be. This will likely need to adapt was published by the Australian Government to map out strategies the plan each year as the situation Legal Status and Management changes in respect to environmental to reduce the feral cat impacts on At the Meeting of Environment factors or change in technologies or native wildlife. The plan includes Ministers on 15 July 2015, Ministers policy. an extensive list of species that are endorsed the National declaration known, or suspected, to be affected To get further support of feral cats as pests. As part of by feral cat populations. Members evaluating your plan and for this declaration, Ministers agreed from the Commonwealth, State and further information on feral cat to review arrangements within Territory Governments, NGOs and management resources, information their respective jurisdictions key feral cat researchers contribute and references visit pestsmart.org. and, where necessary, to remove to a National Feral Cat Taskforce au/toolkits/feral-cats unnecessary barriers to effective that provides a national advisory, and humane control of feral cats. coordination and informal oversight Ministers also agreed to consider group to implement the actions and feral cat management as a priority targets in the Threatened Species in threatened species recovery Strategy. 26 27 Table 2: Summary of legislative support for feral cat management tools by jurisdiction - Source: National Feral Cat Taskforce.

ACT VIC NSW WA TAS QLD SA NT

SHOOTING Under regulations Only by authorised Under permit Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under permit Under regulations persons

BAITING Only by authorised Curiosity under Curiosity order Only by authorised Under permit Under permit Only by authorised Under permit persons permit being drafted persons persons

1080 prohibited

CAGE TRAPS Under permit Under regulations Under permit Under permit Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations

LEGHOLD Under permit Only under Under permit Only under special Only under Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Ministerial approval exemption Ministerial approval TRAPS

DETECTION Prohibited for Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations Under regulations hunting DOGS

FELIXER Under research Under research Under research Under research Under research Under research Under research Under research permit permit permit permit permit permit permit permit

1080 prohibited

Permitted for use under Under permit/only by Only under exemption/prohibited regulations authorised persons

28 29 Table 3: Declared as pest within state legislation Table 4: Relevant legislation by jurisdiction

STATE RELEVANT LEGISLATION RELATING TO CAT MANAGEMENT STATE RELEVANT LEGISLATION RELATING TO CAT MANAGEMENT ACT • Not declared a listed pest under the Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005 ACT • Domestic Animals Act 2000 • Identifies cats as a damage-causing species under the ACT Pest Animal Management • Bush Capital Legacy– Iconic City, Iconic Natural Assets (ACT NRM Council 2009) Strategy 2012-2022 • Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005 VIC • Feral cats declared as a pest on specified Crown land under the Catchment and Land Protections Act 1994 • ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy 2012-2022 • Listed as a Potentially Threatening Process under the Fauna and Flora Guarantee Act 1988 • Animal Welfare Act 1992 • Domestic Animals Act 2000 NSW • A Pest Control Order for feral cats being drafted under Local Land Services Act 2013 VIC • Catchment and Land Protections Act 1994 • Not listed as a pest under the Biosecurity Act 2015 • Fauna and Flora Guarantee Act 1988 • Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (Schedule 3) lists feral cats as a key threatening process • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 • The Natural Resources Commission’s (2016) pest management report recommends listing feral cats as a pest under the Biosecurity Act 2015 • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2008 • Listed as a priority pest species in all 11 Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plans • Agricultural and Veterinary Chemical (Control of Use) Act 1992 https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-and-advice/pests,-weeds-and-diseases/pest-control/ • Domestic Animals Act 1994 regional-strategic-pest-animal-management • Wildlife Act 1975 WA • Declared as a pest under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2019 NSW • Local Land Services Act 2013 • Not declared an invasive species under the Cat Management Act 2009 TAS • Game & Feral Animal Control Act (NSW) 2002 • Not declared as a pest under the Animal Welfare Act 1993 • Non-Indigenous Animals Act 1987 (NSW) • The Tasmanian Cat Management Plan 2017-2022 recommends amendments to the Cat • The NSW Invasive Species Plan 2008-2015 and updated 2015-2022 Plan Management Act 2009 to allow for improved feral cat control • Natural Resource Commission (2016) Pest Management Report QLD • Declared as a class 2 pest under the Land Protection Act 2002 • Biosecurity Act 2015 SA • Declared Animal Pest under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019 • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2012 NT • Declared Feral Animal under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2006 • Pesticides Act 1999 • Pesticide Control (1080 Bait Products) Order 2019 WA • Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 • Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 • Animal Welfare Act 2002 • Animal Welfare (General) Regulations 2003 • Dog Act 1976

30 31 Table 5: Cat management tools available within jurisdiction

STATE RELEVANT LEGISLATION RELATING TO CAT MANAGEMENT STATE TOOL AVAILABLE TAS • Cat Management Act 2009 ACT Shooting: • Animal Welfare Act 1993 • shooting limited to feral animals on private property with permission; • Biosecurity Act 2019 • feral cats listed as a feral animal that can be removed; • Tasmanian Cat Management Plan 2017-2022 • must comply under the Firearms Act 1996.

• Dog Control Act 2000 Baiting: QLD • Land Protection Act 2002 • permitted for use by authorised persons. Currently there are no specific feral cat control programs in the ACT; • Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 • no additional Territory legislation required for the use of cat baits if approved by APVMA. • Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 Cage trapping: SA • Landscape South Australia Act 2019 • a person may apply for a commercial or private trapping permit under the process • Agricultural and Veterinary Products (Control of Use) Act 2002 outlined in Division 6.2 under the Animal Welfare Act 1992. • Animal Welfare Act 1985 Leghold traps: • Animal Welfare Regulations 2012 • padded-jaw are permitted under the Animal Welfare Act 1992; • Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 • a person may apply for a commercial or private trapping permit under the process outlined in Division 6.2 under the Animal Welfare Act 1992. NT • Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (NT) 2006 • Animal Welfare Act 1999 Dogs: • Animal Welfare Regulations 2000 • use of hunting dogs prohibited under the Animal Welfare Act 1992 and Domestic Animals Act 2000.

Felixer grooming trap: • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers at this stage; • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with a research permit for the area approved by the APVMA.

VIC Shooting: • shooting permitted but limited to departmental and agency staff (and their agents) on specified crown land.

Baiting: • the use of PAPP for control of feral cats is supported but not 1080; • Curiosity is restricted to persons operating under a specific permit issued from Agriculture Victoria and DELWP. Use is restricted to specified Crown land. Controls have been established under the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1992.

Cage trapping: • permitted ensuring trap complies with regulation 34 and individual sets trap in accordance with regulation 35 and 36 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2008; • traps can only be set with approval from land holder.

32 33 STATE TOOL AVAILABLE STATE TOOL AVAILABLE VIC Leghold traps: WA Shooting: • leghold traps are permitted by Ministerial approval for declared feral cats in limited • must be licenced and comply under the Firearms Act 1973, Animal Welfare Act 2002 and circumstances and only where the feral cat declaration applies, in sites where eradication Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016; is achievable. • authorised persons may humanely destroy feral cats providing land owner permission is Dogs: obtained. • dogs can be utilised to point or flush feral cats under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Baiting: Regulations 2008 and Domestic Animals Act 1994. • Eradicat bait (1080) registered for use in Western Australia; Felixer grooming trap: • Eradicat can only be used by Authorised Officers, Licensed Pesticide Management • No specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; Technicians that comply under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014.

• 1080 is not an approved poison for control of feral cats in Victoria. Cage trapping: • cage trapping permitted for cat control (under permit) under the Animal Welfare Act 2002.

NSW Shooting: Leghold traps: • feral cat listed as a non-indigenous game animal under the Game & Feral Animal Control • leghold traps are not permitted for cat control (unless under special exemption), Act (NSW) 2002; considered inhumane devices under the Animal Welfare Act 2002. • a game hunting licence is not required to hunt non-indigenous animals on private land however, is required to hunt on public land. Dogs: • the use of dogs is permitted ensuring compliance under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 and Baiting: Dog Act 1976. • 1080 is registered for use by authorised officers. An authorised person may only use or possess 1080 bait products for the control of wild dogs, foxes, feral pigs or rabbits under Felixer grooming trap: the Pesticide Control (1080 Bait Products) Order 2019; • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; • a Pest Control Order is being drafted for the use of Curiosity baits. • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with toxins if approved by the APVMA and State authorities. Cage trapping: • permit required to trap and control on public land under the Game & Feral Animal Control Act (NSW) 2002; TAS Shooting: • traps must comply with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979. • Authorised Officers may humanely destroy cats found in prohibited areas (National Parks, Conservation Areas, Public Reserves, State Forest and private property with a conservation covenant) under the Cat Management Act 2009; Leghold traps: • permit required to trap and control on public land under the Game & Feral Animal Control • a person may humanely destroy a cat on their land in accordance with the Cat Act (NSW) 2002; Management Act 2009 and Animal Welfare Act 1993, providing land is over 1 km from the nearest residence; • soft-jawed traps permitted under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979. • Shooting is not permitted within 250 m of a dwelling. Dogs: Baiting: • dogs may be used to locate, point, flush or retrieve ensuring compliance under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 and Companion Animals Act 1998. • only available to Authorised Officers under appropriate permits.

Felixer grooming trap: Cage trapping: • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; • Authorised Officers may trap and humanely destroy cats found in prohibited areas by under the Cat Management Act 2009; • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with toxins if approved by the APVMA and State authorities. • a person may trap in or on premises lawfully entered, providing land is over 1 km from the nearest residence, under the Cat Management Act 2009.

34 35 STATE TOOL AVAILABLE STATE TOOL AVAILABLE TAS Leghold traps: SA Shooting: • a person must not use a leghold trap under the Animal Welfare Act 1993. The Minister • feral cats may be humanely destroyed at any time providing a Hunting Permit is obtained; may grant an exemption to use a leghold trap under certain conditions. • authorised persons may humanely destroy feral cats providing landowner permission is Dogs: obtained. Approval is required on National Parks and Reserves; • dogs may be used only during daylight hours to locate, point and flush cats; • authorised persons must comply under the Firearms Act 2015, Animal Welfare Act 1985 and Animal Welfare Regulations 2012. • owners must ensure compliance with Animal Welfare Act 1993 and Dog Control Act 2000. Baiting: Felixer grooming trap: • 1080 and PAPP are registered for use in feral cat control and may only be distributed by • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; authorised persons under the Agricultural and Veterinary Products (Control of Use) Act • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with a research 2002. Baiting on public and private land is by authorised persons only. permit for the area approved by the APVMA. Cage trapping: • permitted for use by authorised persons ensuring compliance under the Animal Welfare QLD Shooting: Act 1985. • permitted providing shooters have a firearms licence and comply with the Weapons Act Leghold traps: 1990 and with the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001; • permitted for use by authorised persons ensuring compliance under the Animal Welfare • must obtain landowner permission. Act 1985.

Baiting: Dogs: • 1080 is registered for the control of feral cats and authorised officers can supply and • dogs are permitted to locate, hold at bay and retrieve feral animals but must not be set distribute 1080 baits; on animals. Owner must ensure dog is compliant under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995. • landholders may apply to Queensland Health for individual approvals for several 1080 and PAPP bait products. Felixer grooming trap: Cage trapping: • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; • must obtain landowner permission before trapping; • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with toxins if approved by the APVMA and State authorities. • cage traps can be used providing they comply with the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001.

Leghold traps: NT Shooting: • must obtain landowner permission before trapping; • feral cats are a declared pest and can be taken at any time. Land owner permission must be obtained; • leghold traps are permitted ensuring they comply with the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001. • shooters must comply under the Firearms Act 1997.

Dogs: Baiting: • dogs may be used only to locate, point and flush cats ensuring compliance under the • unless authorised a person must not lay baits under the Animal Welfare Act 1999; Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 and Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. • if you are a property owner or manager, you need to apply for a 1080 Pest Animal Management Authorisation; Felixer grooming trap: • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; • authorised persons are permitted under certain conditions.

• until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with toxins if Humane cage trapping: approved by the APVMA and State authorities. • permitted ensuring they comply under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.

36 37 STATE Tool available Further reading

NT Dogs: Ecology • dogs may be used to locate, point and flush feral cats ensuring compliance under council by-laws, the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and Animal Welfare Regulations 2000. Department of Environment (2015). Fancourt BA, Cremasco P, Wilson C Threat Abatement Plan for Predation by and Gentle, MN (2019). Do introduced Felixer grooming trap: Feral Cats. Commonwealth of Australia. apex predators suppress introduced • no specific legislation preventing the use of Felixers; mesopredators? A multiscale Denny EA and Dickman CR (2010). • until broadscale registration is received, Felixers can only be operated with toxins if spatiotemporal study of dingoes and feral Review of cat ecology and management approved by the APVMA and Territory authorities. cats in Australia suggests not. Journal of strategies in Australia. Invasive Animals Applied Ecology, 56(12), 2584-2595. Cooperative Research Centre, Canberra. Johnston M, Algar D, O’Donoghue Jones E and Coman BJ (1981). Ecology M, Morris J, Buckmaster T and of the feral cat, Felis catus (L.), in south- Quinn J (2020). Efficacy and welfare eastern Australia I. Diet. Wildlife Research assessment of an encapsulated para- 8(3), 537-547. aminopropiophenone (PAPP) formulation Jones E and Coman BJ (1982). Ecology as a bait-delivered toxicant for feral cats of the feral cat, Felis catus (L.), in south- (Felis catus). Wildlife Research 47, 686- eastern Australia II.* Reproduction. 697. Wildlife Research 9, 111-119. Legge S, Ringma J, Bode M, Radford J, Read J and Bowen Z (2001). Population Woinarksi J, Mitchell N and Wintle B. dynamics, diet and aspects of the biology (2018). Protecting Australian mammals of feral cats and foxes in arid South from introduced cats and foxes: The Australia. Wildlife Research 28, 195-203. current status and future growth of predator-free havens. Online resource Legge, S, Murphy, BP, McGregor, H, accessed August 2020. Woinarski JCZ, et al (2017). Enumerating a continental-scale threat: How many McGregor HW, Hampton JO, Lisle D and feral cats are in Australia? Biological Legge S. (2016). Live-capture of feral cats Conservation 206, 293-303. using tracking dogs and darting, with comparisons to leg-hold trapping. Wildlife Mitchell B and Balogh S (2007). Research 43, 313-322. Monitoring techniques for vertebrate pests - feral pigs. Orange, NSW: Read JL, Bowden T, Hodgens P, Hess M, Department of Primary Industries. McGregor H and Moseby K (2019). Target specificity of the Felixer grooming “trap”. Control Wildlife Society Bulletin 43(1), 112-120. Algar D and Burrows ND (2004). Feral Monitoring cat control research: Western Shield review--February 2003. Conservation Bengsen A, Butler J and Masters P Science Western Australia, 5(2), 131-163. (2012). Estimating and indexing feral cat population abundances using camera Algar D, Johnston M, Tiller C, Onus traps. Wildlife Research 38(8), 732-739. M, Fletcher J, Desmond G Hamilton N and Speldewinde P (2020). Feral Fancourt BA (2016). Avoiding the subject: Feral Cat and Brush-tailed Phascogale. Image by Marika Maxwell. cat eradication on Dirk Hartog Island, the implications of avoidance behaviour Western Australia. Biological Invasions for detecting predators. Behavioral 38 22(3), 1037-1054. Ecology and Sociobiology 70, 1535-1546. 39 Hanke PU and Dickman CR (2013). Legge S, Taggart P, Dickman CR, Read J 7. Notes Sniffing out the stakes: hair-snares for and Woinarski JCZ (2020). Cat-dependent ______wild cats in arid environments. Wildlife diseases cost Australia AU$6 billion Research 40(1), 45-51. per year through impacts on human ______health and livestock production. Wildlife Heurich M, Müller J and Burg M (2012). Research 47, 731-746. ______Comparison of the effectivity of different snare types for collecting and retaining McLeod R (2004). Counting the Cost: ______hair from Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx). Impact of Invasive Animals in Australia ______European Journal of Wildlife Research, Cooperative Research Centre for Pest 58(3), 579-587. Animal Control, Canberra. ______

Meek PD, Fleming P, Ballard G, Banks P, Woinarski JC, Murphy BP, Legge SM, ______Claridge AW, Sanderson J and Swann D Garnett ST, Lawes MJ, Comer S, Dickman ______(Eds.). (2014). Camera trapping: wildlife CR, Doherty TS, Edwards G, Nankivell management and research (Vol. 2). A and Paton D (2017). How many birds ______Melbourne, Australia: CSIRO Publishing. are killed by cats in Australia? Biological ______Conservation 214, 76-87. Triggs, B. (2004). Tracks, Scats and ______Other traces: A Field Guide to Australian Woinarski JCZ, Murphy BP, Palmer R, Mammals. Oxford University Press, USA Legge SM, Dickman CR, Doherty TS, ______Edwards G, Nankivell A, Read JL and ______Impacts Stokeld D (2018). How many reptiles ______Doherty TS, Davis RA, van Etten EJ, are killed by cats in Australia? Wildlife Algar D, Collier N, Dickman CR, Edwards Research 45, 247-266. ______G, Masters P, Palmer R and Robinson S Woinarski JC, Legge SM, Woolley LA, ______(2015). A continental-scale analysis of Palmer R, Dickman CR, Augusteyn feral cat diet in Australia. Journal of Bio- J, Doherty TS, Edwards G, Geyle H, ______geography 42(5), 964-75. McGregor H and Riley J (2020). Predation ______Fancourt BA and Jackson RB (2014). by introduced cats Felis catus on Regional seroprevalence of Toxoplasma Australian frogs: compilation of species ______gondii antibodies in feral and stray cats records and estimation of numbers killed. ______(Felis catus) from Tasmania. Australian Wildlife Research, Journal of Zoology 62, 272-283. 47(8) 580-588. ______

Fancourt BA, Nicol SC, Hawkins CE, Jones Woinarski JCZ, Legge SM and Dickman ______ME and Johnson CN (2014). Beyond CR (2019) Cats in Australia. Companion the disease: is Toxoplasma gondii and Killer. Clayton South Victoria. CSIRO infection causing population declines in Publishing. the eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus)? International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife 3, 102-112.

Fancourt BA (2016). Avoiding the subject: the implications of avoidance behaviour for detecting predators. Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology 70, 1535-1546.

40 41 7. Notes ______

42 43 PESTSMART.ORG.AU