New Zealand’s biodiversity is unlike anywhere else on Earth. Around 80% of our native birds are found nowhere else on earth, and many evolved without mammalian predators. That history is exactly why introduced predators have had such a devastating impact, and why effective predator management remains critical today.
Feral cats are one of the most capable hunters in our environment. They are fast, adaptable, and able to survive in everything from coastal dunes to high country farmland. For this reason they have now been added to the Government's Predator Free 2050 target species list. For anyone looking to actively protect native wildlife, understanding their impact and how to manage them is an important first step.
What the science tells us about feral cats
Multiple studies in New Zealand and overseas show feral cats have a broad diet and hunt opportunistically. They prey on:
- Ground-nesting birds and chicks
- Forest birds that feed or nest close to the ground
- Native skinks and geckos
- Large invertebrates such as wētā
Because many native species breed slowly and already face pressure from habitat loss and other predators, even low numbers of feral cats can stop populations from recovering. In sensitive areas, removing just one or two cats can make a measurable difference to nesting success and survival rates.
Why trapping is an effective management tool
Trapping allows targeted control in areas where wildlife is most vulnerable, such as bush margins, wetlands, and coastal breeding sites. When done correctly, trapping is humane, repeatable, and highly effective.
Importantly, feral cat trapping works best as part of an ongoing programme. Cats are territorial, but once one is removed, another may move into the area. Regular monitoring and maintenance are key to long-term success.
Getting started
For people new to trapping, keeping things straightforward is the best approach. A reliable starter setup includes:
Large Cage Trap: A sturdy cage trap is ideal for feral cats as it allows you to target individuals safely and humanely. The larger size helps reduce trap shyness and ensures cats can fully enter the trap to trigger it properly. They're also a great way to ensure non-target species like kiwi are not harmed should they engage with the trap.
Mustelid and Cat Lure: Scent-based lures are extremely effective for feral cats, especially in areas where food sources vary. A quality lure appeals to their strong sense of smell and curiosity, increasing the chances of investigation and entry into the trap.
Flagging Tape or Track Markers: If you’re setting traps in deep bush or remote spots, a bit of flagging tape or a track marker on trees or fence posts on route and near traps can make them much easier to find during daily checks. It’s particularly useful when more than one person is doing the rounds, or when traps are monitored remotely and only visited to refresh lures or clear captures. Just be sure not to place them too close to the trap, as feral cats may find them off putting.
Used together, these tools cover the three key drivers of trap success:
- Curiosity and Attraction (strong scent from the lure)
- Reliable capture (a well-sized, solid trap)
- Easy location for daily checks
Practical tips for better results
If you’re just starting out, these tips can make a big difference:
Placement matters: Set traps along fence lines, bush edges, farm tracks, or anywhere you’ve seen signs of cat activity like tracks or scat/poop.
Stability is key: Make sure the trap sits flat and doesn’t wobble. An unstable trap can scare cats off.
Reduce human scent: Wear gloves when handling traps, lures and flagging tapes, and avoid overhandling the trap or bait area.
Check traps daily: The Animal Welfare Act requires that any live capture trap must be manually inspected within 12 hours after sunrise on each day the trap remains set. Remote monitoring of traps is allowable. When using remote monitoring, the trap must be manually inspected within 24 hours after the capture of an animal in the trap.
Be patient: Feral cats can be cautious. It’s common for traps to be investigated a few times before a successful catch.
Protecting wildlife while being responsible
Feral cat management is not about targeting pets or responsible cat owners. It’s about addressing unmanaged populations that live independently of people and place significant pressure on native species.
Clear identification, sensible trap placement, and community awareness help ensure trapping stays focused where it belongs, protecting wildlife while avoiding unintended impacts.
Domestic cats caught in traps
The following is an excerpt from the MPI website; “Owners or people in charge of cats should take all reasonable steps to ensure that their cat does not wander onto land which is known to be actively trapped. There may be by-laws in place in your area that restrict the use of traps. Your local council can provide you with information about these by-laws. Killing an animal (humanely) is not illegal under animal welfare legislation, but destroying someone’s property is (Crimes Act 1961) and pet cats are technically considered property. The deliberate act of killing someone’s pet cat should be reported to police, but the humane killing of feral cats is not an offence.”
Small actions, real results
Starting a trapping programme can feel daunting, but the science is clear: targeted feral cat control works. Every trap correctly set and maintained contributes to healthier ecosystems and better outcomes for native species.
At Traps.co.nz, we focus on practical, proven tools that make it easier for everyday New Zealanders to get involved. With the right setup and a bit of persistence, you can make a real difference to the wildlife in your area.
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