New Zealand's cat cull sparks outrage: Over 370 feral cats killed

For New Zealand residents, protecting native species is a priority. However, the methods used for this purpose are highly controversial. An example of this is the competition organized at the end of June. The event organizers encouraged participants, including children, to catch and kill feral cats.

The animals were trapped in special cages and then killed with a 0.87-inch caliber gunshot. Photos showing piles of various animal bodies, including feral cats, were published on the North Canterbury Hunting Competition profile.

Animal rights defenders are outraged by these practices. They argue that there are more humane and effective methods of controlling feral cat populations that do not subject animals to suffering or promote violence against living creatures as entertainment for younger participants.

During the controversial hunting competition in New Zealand, over 370 wild cats were killed. Participants, both adults and children, competed for prizes for the highest number of dead animals. One participant killed as many as 65 cats, which earned them the main cash prize of 500 New Zealand dollars, or about $300.

Many residents feared that children and adults could not distinguish a wild cat from a lost or returning home pet.

In the recent hunting event held in New Zealand, over 1,500 people participated. Out of these, 440 were minors. Each time, their organization provokes more outrage in society.

According to New Zealand residents, wild cats are particularly dangerous for local bird species, whose populations are rapidly declining due to their predation.