Feral cats occur right across the continent in every habitat
type including deserts, forests and grasslands. Total population
estimates vary from 5 million to 18 million feral cats. Each
feral cat kills between 5-30 animals per day. Taking the lower
figure in that range (five) – and multiplying it by a
conservative population estimate of 15 million cats – gives a
minimum estimate of 75 million native animals killed daily by
feral cats. It is clear that cats are playing a critical role in
the decline of our native fauna. They are recognised as a
primary cause of several early mammal extinctions and are
identified as a factor in the current declines of at least 80
threatened species. AWC has developed a practical strategy
designed to minimise their impacts and facilitate the
development of a long-term solution. This includes: - GROUND
COVER: impairing the hunting efficiency of cats in grasslands
and woodlands by manipulating ground cover through: - minimising
the frequency and extent of late-season wildfires;an