They thrive and are fed by "Advocats" people. They capture them and get them neutered and released. You can tell if they have been fixed as they snip off the tip of an ear. That's how we know both our outdoor guys were feral and captured at one time.
The neuter and release program in this county snips the ears, too. Only the most human-avoiding cats are turned loose, though-the majority end up at the weekend pet fairs at the farmers/flea market and are purchased for $75.00-the cost of neutering and shots-and go to homes-having lived feral, they are very good hunters, guaranteed to keep your home rodent free. The also tend to be affectionate and get along with other pets-grateful for a good home.