Numbats and penguins recover when Australia kills feral cats and foxes
Conservation scientists explain why killing invasive predators is needed to save native species from extinction.
Parliament debated invasive species this month, sparking a question: why kill introduced animals to save native ones? The answer lies in decades of evidence.
European rabbits and feral cats harm native wildlife. Invasive foxes and feral cats have driven many native Australian mammals to extinction.
The numbat was hunted nearly to extinction by feral cats and foxes in the 1970s. It was saved by killing predators in safe areas and building predator-free sanctuaries.
It is no longer endangered. When foxes were removed from Phillip Island in Victoria, little penguin numbers rose.
Eastern barred bandicoots and bush stone-curlews were brought to the island after being wiped out. Scientists point out that these decisions need strong evidence and careful tracking.
Without controlling some invasive species, Australia may lose more native animals. The goal is to cause the least harm while keeping ecosystems and some species intact.
- October 13
- Parliament motion date
- David Pocock (independent)
- Senator introducing motion
- Mehreen Faruqi (Greens)
- Senator opposing language
- Phillip Island, Victoria
- Location of penguin recovery
Why it mattersInvasive predators directly drive native species to extinction. Killing invasive animals is often the only way to save native ones.
AustraliaAustralia's unique wildlife, species found nowhere else, depends on controlling introduced predators. Without action, more native species face extinction.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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