VALVERDE (EL HIERRO), January 15, 2025 - The Cabildo of El Hierro, in collaboration with the Vice Ministry of Ecological Transition, Climate Change, and Energy of the Canary Islands Government, has initiated a significant campaign for the mass sterilization and identification of domestic and feral cats on the island, with an investment of €49,999.99.
This project aims to prevent the mass abandonment of felines through awareness campaigns while implementing practical control measures such as sterilization and identification.
The initiative has the active collaboration of the Amigos de los Animales El Juaclo Association, an organization experienced in the responsible management of domestic and feral wildlife on the island.
Environmental Councilor Jesús Pérez encourages local citizens and organizations to participate actively in this initiative, contributing to the goals of biodiversity protection and improving animal welfare on El Hierro.
The main actions of this project include the mass sterilization and identification of cats, focusing on urban, rural, and areas near protected natural spaces, prioritizing locations with a high incidence of feral cat colonies.
Additionally, awareness campaigns will be conducted to inform the public about the importance of responsible pet management and the ecological impact of feral cats.
This action aligns with the MaB Program (Man and Biosphere) and the Strategic Plan of El Hierro's Biosphere Reserve, integrating strategies to improve citizen quality of life and conserve native species while protecting natural spaces.
The abandonment of cats and the proliferation of feral colonies, particularly in protected natural areas, highlight the urgent need for sustainable measures, as emphasized by the Cabildo.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), cats are among the 100 most harmful species to the biodiversity of oceanic islands, and their presence in protected natural spaces poses a significant challenge to conservation efforts.