TLC TV - Feral Cat

Posted by admin on April 12, 2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qot1iif0_2k

Feral cats are widespread throughout the state with sightings occurring in such remote areas as southwest Tasmania and the central highlands.

This video was shot at Skullbone Plains in the central highlands a short distance from the World Heritage Area boundry.

Feral cats prefer live prey but do occasionally scavenge carrion or human food scraps. They are opportunistic predators meaning that their diet generally reflects the fauna present in the area where they live and hunt.

Rabbits are usually the staple prey in Tasmania while other food items include small mammals, birds, reptiles (particularly skinks), frogs, fish, invertebrates and even vegetable matter. Where rabbits are absent or in low numbers -- for example in western Tasmania -- the diet mainly consists of small native mammals and native birds. Unfortunately native birds well outnumber introduced birds in the diet of feral cats in most areas of the state.

The TLC will be using its new remote cameras to help with management strategies on many of our reserves.