A new culling program is being introduced in Queensland to tackle the growing problem of feral cats, which are threatening the survival of some of Australia's most endangered species.
The goal is to kill thousands of feral cats in a bid to restore ecological balance and protect native wildlife.
The Feral Cat Problem: A Threat to Native Species
Feral cats are estimated to pose a significant threat to over 200 native species, including iconic animals like the greater bilby, night parrot, and kowari.
These cats are "relentless hunters" that don't respect property boundaries, according to Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation deputy director-general Ben Klaassen.
Without action, these species face an uncertain future.
The Culling Program: How It Works
The Channel Country Threatened Species Partnership (CCTSP) will focus on a 180,000ha area in southwest Queensland to remove feral cats and protect native species.
The program, which is supported by $498,973 in funding from the federal government's Saving Native Species Program, will use humane methods such as ground shooting, trapping, and thermal imaging scopes to locate and cull cats.
The Controversy Surrounding Culling
While the culling program aims to be humane, it remains a highly controversial practice. Animal rights groups argue that killing animals, even humanely, is not an ethical solution.
There are calls for non-lethal alternatives, such as sterilisation programs, to reduce the feral cat population over time.
A Shared Mission to Safeguard the Environment
Despite the controversy, the Queensland government believes that this initiative will play a vital role in protecting the state's unique and vulnerable wildlife.
The program involves a partnership of 12 groups, including government, First Nations, pastoralists, and conservation organisations, and is part of a broader strategy to protect Queensland's unique wildlife.
"This program marks a turning point by uniting traditional custodians, pastoral companies, conservation groups, and the Queensland government in a shared mission to safeguard the environment," said Desert Channels Queensland CEO Leanne Kohler.
The Battle to Save Native Species
The culling program will focus on eight sites across the Channel Country, covering an area of up to 500,000ha.
While it's a challenging task, the Queensland government hopes that this initiative will make a significant impact in reducing the feral cat population and protecting native species.
As the battle to save Australia's native species continues, one thing is clear: something needs to be done to address the growing problem of feral cats.
