Identification of the population source of free-ranging cats threatening endemic species on Tokunoshima Island, Japan

Free-ranging cats on Tokunoshima Island, Japan, are primarily sustained by feeding practices in cattle barns and thrive in landscapes dominated by woodlots. This study reveals that cat density is positively correlated with the presence of cattle barns and woodlot areas but negatively associated with residential zones. Nearly half of the cattle barns surveyed contribute to cat sustenance, suggesting a significant bottom-up population growth process. The research analyzed live-capture data and conducted interviews to identify these patterns, emphasizing that halting cat feeding in barns could mitigate their impact on endemic species. Further stakeholder engagement is recommended based on ecological risk assessments.

Kazato, K., Watari, Y., & Miyashita, T. (2020). Identification of the population source of free-ranging cats threatening endemic species on Tokunoshima Island, Japan. Mammal Research, 65(4), 719–727. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13364-020-00528-5