In a significant environmental controversy, various NGOs have expressed their disapproval of the feral cat management practices on the Canary Island of La Graciosa. They argue that the Capture, Neuter, and Return (CER) method implemented in the urban areas is detrimental to the conservation of native biodiversity.
The CER campaign, which took place from July 25 to 28, was organized by the Animal Welfare Area of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, in collaboration with multiple local authorities and organizations. La Graciosa is part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park and holds multiple designations under European conservation laws.
According to data from the Autonomous Agency of National Parks, at least 172 birds, including protected species, have been killed by cat predation between 2020 and 2024. This alarming statistic highlights the negative impact of introduced feline species on the island's native wildlife.
Environmental organizations, including SEO/BirdLife, have called for the relocation of feral cats that threaten biodiversity in protected areas. They emphasize that local authorities must ensure that owned cats are identified, sterilized, and controlled to prevent them from accessing natural habitats.
With feral cats roaming freely, they pose a significant threat to important colonies of endangered seabirds, risking their viability and survival. NGOs have criticized the current management practices, stating that they exacerbate conservation issues rather than resolve them.
These organizations urge the Canary Islands Government to exercise its authority to oversee actions taken by the Cabildo of Lanzarote, advocating for compliance with European and national regulations designed to protect native fauna.