Study

Birds be safe: Can a novel cat collar reduce avian mortality by domestic cats (Felis catus)?

  • Published source details Willson S.K., Okunlola I.A. & Novak J.A. (2015) Birds be safe: Can a novel cat collar reduce avian mortality by domestic cats (Felis catus)?. Global Ecology and Conservation, 3, 359-366.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Use collar-mounted devices to reduce predation by domestic animals

Action Link
Terrestrial Mammal Conservation
  1. Use collar-mounted devices to reduce predation by domestic animals

    A replicated, randomized, controlled study in 2013–2014 in a residential area of New York state, USA (Willson et al. 2015) found that domestic cats Felis catus wearing collars with bright colours and patterns brought home fewer mammals than did cats with no collars in autumn, but not in spring. From September–November 2013, 54 cats brought home fewer mammals (0.6/cat) in six weeks spent wearing a Birdsbesafe® collar with bright colours and patterns than the same cats did during six weeks without a collar (1.2/cat). However in a repeat experiment from April–June 2014 there was no difference (with collar: 1.1/cat; without collar: 1.1/cat). Cats were randomly allocated to one of two groups, beginning with or without a Birdsbesafe® collar, and the treatment on each cat was changed every two weeks throughout a 12-week period. Only cats that regularly brought home intact prey were included in the study. Owners collected dead prey items and recorded live prey before release.

    (Summarised by: Ricardo Rocha )

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