In rural New Zealand, an annual hunting competition has stirred controversy by including feral cats among its targets.
This year, participants in the North Canterbury event killed around 340 feral cats, a significant increase from the previous year.
The event, which aims to raise funds for local causes, also features hunting categories for deer, pigs, ducks, possums, and rabbits.
The introduction of feral cats to the hunting lineup in 2023 has drawn intense criticism from animal rights activists.
They argue that the competition promotes cruelty and desensitizes children to violence.
Protesters from the Animal Save Movement attended the event, condemning it as a misguided attempt at Conservation.
Event organizer Matt Bailey defends the inclusion of feral cats, citing their threat to native wildlife and livestock.
He explains that measures are in place to ensure only feral cats are targeted, with specific protocols for humane killing.
Bailey emphasizes that rural life often involves hunting and processing animals, which is reflected in the community’s acceptance of the event.
Despite the backlash, the competition raised approximately $60,000 for local projects and donated venison to food banks.
Both hunters and activists agree on the need for responsible cat ownership and Support initiatives like microchipping and desexing to control the cat population.
This article by Trinity Sparke was first published by One Green Planet on 4 July 2024. Image Credit :Annette L Olson/Shutterstock.
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