Cats the top threat to U.S. wildlife

**Red_Lizard2** · 01-29-13, 05:23 PM

Really wouldn't of thought they were the top threat and amazed at the amount they had killed (and the extinction of 33 animals). I do see, at least around the neighborhood a ton of feral cats, and wouldn't be surprised if there are many in other parts so I suppose it isn't a huge shock but still, anyone think cats would be the biggest threat?

BBC News - Cats killing billions of animals in the US

Originally Posted by Rebecca Morelle

Cats are one of the top threats to US wildlife, killing billions of animals each year, a study suggests.

The authors estimate they are responsible for the deaths of between 1.4 and 3.7 billion birds and 6.9-20.7 billion mammals annually.

**deathgodusmc** · 01-29-13, 06:38 PM

I have the solution. Panda expresses on every corner.

**iLLusioN** · 01-29-13, 06:41 PM

I wouldn't doubt it. Not only do they kill pretty much any and all small animals, they can wreak some serious havoc on a house(I know more than a few people that had to either replace ductwork or ceiling insulation because of cats). Stray/wild cats are basically vermin, on level with Coons and possums IMO.

**deputyfestus** · 01-29-13, 07:34 PM

Paging DJ Mr.White!!

**SapiensErus** · 01-29-13, 07:44 PM

Yep. In one of my Env Sci. sections years ago we had a a discussion about cats and looked at some statistics.

We have miniaturized one of natures best land-born killing machines and replicated them en masse. They are supposed to be a top tier predator with a much smaller population partially due to larger energy requirements but also prey availability. Cats are perfect hunters and they are obligate carnivores; they only eat meat aside from the collateral fur, bones feathers and possible gut-contents of their prey.