A Review of Feral Cat Eradication on Islands

Abstract

We reviewed feral cat eradication campaigns on islands with the primary intent of assessing the approaches, successes, and challenges of these conservation actions to help facilitate future island conservation programs. We reviewed documented impacts of feral cat populations on island ecosystems and the recovery of native populations after cat removal. We then analyzed key aspects of these eradication campaigns to identify future directions and challenges of cat eradication. We compiled data from published and gray literature and personally communicated with over 60 researchers and conservation practitioners, covering most of the world’s insular regions.