Re: [SG] critters, soapbox for spay/neuter programs

Unfortunately, Bob is right. Feral domestic cats breed nearly as fast as
rabbits. Their lifespan is often quoted at around 2 years. (and a miserable
life at that)
 They do an extraordinary amount of damage to native bird populations. If
only the startlings were as easy to catch!

 Longwood Gardens in Delaware has a population of semiferal cats in its
gardens. The cats are spayed/neutered and recieve regular medical care.
They are released to help control the high rodent population in the gardens.
 They are released because the spayed/neutered cats will still defend their
territory. Simply removing them leaves a vacuum for nonspayed cats to fill,
and does nothing to reduce the rodent population.

 Raise your bird feeders at least 7 feet off the ground. (Those pretty
metal feeders at waist level a bit sadistic if you have *any* cats in the
neighborhood) There will still be a higher mortality rate with young birds,
but the adult birds will learn to be wary of landing in the yard. They will
stick to the shrubs, trees and feeders, and the cats won't have nearly as
much opportunity to be successful hunting for them.

 We rescued a very affectionate mom cat and her kittens from the dump last
fall. 2 of the kittens we were able to give to good homes, the third is
fairly wild. We had to use a 'Havahart' trap to catch her when it was time
to get her spayed. I'm hoping she will become more affectionate over time.
(Then we won't have to trap her again for her rabies booster next year)
 This is the first year we haven't had mice in the shed, or under the house
for that matter! Much easier than glue traps and you get a companion as well.
 Get a pet indoor/outdoor cat and give it regular medical care as needed.
 And *PLEASE* remember to get it spayed/neutered. One is great, 13 are not.
(1 mom with an average of 4 kittens per 3 litters per year)

HTH
Matt Trahan  <matttrahan@ecsu.campus.mci.net> or <garden@juno.com>
USDA zone 8, AHS heat zone 7, Sunset zone 31, northeastern N.C.
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