Luke Guzelis: The worst, most dangerous, most destructive invasive species? Meow

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette ^ | May 17, 2022 | Luke Guzelis

[Tolerance Sucks Rocks]

Many news stories stress that our ecosystems are under assault by Burmese pythons and Asian carp. This leads people to conclude that it is the less charismatic fauna such as reptiles and fish that are the most threatening of invasive species.

Proposed amendments to the Lacey Act that the U.S. House passed Feb. 4 seem to perpetuate this narrative, with a proposed ban on all exotic animal species moving across state lines. (The 122-year-old Lacey Act bans trafficking in illegally taken fish, wildlife, and plants.) But one animal that the International Union for Conservation of Nature considers among the world’s worst invasive species is also one of America’s most popular pets: Felis catus, the domestic cat.

For the record, I love cats. My rescued girl, Drama Queen, is one of the greatest joys in my life. However, I am firmly of the opinion that she belongs indoors for her own safety, the safety of other animals and the overall well-being of my suburban environment. I don’t intend to shame those who may give their cats outdoor access. I merely wish to present the case that cats are a highly significant invasive species that poses a threat arguably greater than that posed by any other pet animal, including reptiles and amphibians.

Two of the most obvious and significant impacts invasive species may have on an ecosystem include increased disease transmission and predation on native species. Outdoor cats can have these impacts. In 2014, cats made up 61% of rabies cases among domestic animals. Cats are also responsible for the transmission of toxoplasmosis, a fecal parasite that can result in illness and death among wildlife as well as potentially producing birth defects, behavioral disorders or other consequences for people with compromised immunity . . .

[Terry L Smith]

i have!
why else would i have asked!!
heres whas gone :
sparrows, doves, cardinals, juncoes, wrens, woodpekers, all gone.

[FalloutShelterGirl]

They sure do impact wildlife. I started feeding a stray cat a few years ago. Had her trapped and spayed so I figure it's the least I can do. Have not seen a single rat in over two years - and they were a constant problem, wanting to live under my garden shed or in the compost.

I've noticed no decline in birds and I have feeders out in the winter. I wish she would take care of the English Starlings. Now there is an invasive species! I've seen them kill song birds.

[Gil4]

When I read the original post, my mind went to the kids song about the old woman who swallowed a fly. We just need a good ending comparable to her swallowing a horse (and dying, of course). Otherwise, we just have the equivalent of The Song That Never Ends.

Sri Lanka is next to India, and they have nukes...