Cat owners across the Fleurieu Peninsula and Coorong are being urged to keep their pets contained as a feral cat control program gets underway to protect native wildlife.
The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board says targeted trapping is now underway across several coastal and wetland areas as part of a coordinated effort to reduce pressure from introduced predators.
Feral cats are known to threaten beach-nesting birds, reptiles and small mammals, contributing to declining wildlife populations and reduced breeding success in the region.
The program is being delivered in Carrickalinga, Rapid Bay, Wirrina, Yankalilla, Encounter Bay, Victor Harbor, Waitpinga, Goolwa, Milang, Tolderol and Hindmarsh Island, with more locations expected to be added.
While the focus of the program is on feral animals, the Landscape Board says roaming domestic cats could be accidentally caught in traps.
Residents are being strongly encouraged to keep their cats confined to their property and ensure they are microchipped and wearing a collar.
The broader project also includes fox control through baiting and shooting, with the aim of protecting vulnerable wildlife and strengthening ecosystems along the Fleurieu coast and wetlands.
The program is funded by the Australian Government and delivered by the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board in partnership with local councils and conservation groups.
