Ethically Managing Free-Roaming Cat Populations

Seeking a Sustainable Solution

Free-roaming cat populations are increasing across the United States, sparking controversy between environmental groups and cat advocates. Previous studies have suggested that a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) approach may be a potential means of effectively—and ethically—managing these populations.

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Urban Wildlife Institute has teamed up with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New York City to determine if TNR might be effective for controlling cat population. Using motion-triggered cameras and visual sampling, we are measuring cat populations in Harlem and Bedford-Stuyvesant before and after intensive TNR efforts. The results will help determine the effectiveness of the TNR strategy—and give other urban areas insight on managing increasing free-roaming cat populations.

Staff

Julia Kilgour, M.S. Project Coordinator, Urban Wildlife Institute

Seth Magle, Ph.D. Director, Urban Wildlife Institute