Cat massacre in New Zealand sparks outrage over hunting contest
In New Zealand, a controversial competition was organized, which led to the death of over 370 wild cats. One of the participants killed as many as 65 animals, for which they received a cash prize. Rifles were used to kill them.
Protecting native species is a priority for New Zealand residents. However, the methods used for this purpose are highly controversial. An example is the competition organized at the end of June. The event organizers encouraged participants, including children, to catch and kill feral cats.
It turned out that the animals were trapped in special cages and then killed with a 22 mm calibre gunshot. Photos showing piles of various animal bodies, including feral cats, were published on the North Canterbury Hunting Competition profile.
Animal rights defenders are outraged by such practices. They argue that there are more humane and effective methods of controlling feral cat populations that do not subject animals to suffering or promote violence against living creatures as entertainment for younger participants.
They shot cats
During the controversial hunting competition in New Zealand, over 370 wild cats were killed. Participants, both adults and children, competed for prizes for the highest number of dead animals. One of the participants killed as many as 65 cats, which earned them the main cash prize of 500 New Zealand dollars, or about CAD 300.
Many residents feared that children and adults could not distinguish a wild cat from a lost or returning home pet.
New Zealand "fights" with cats
In the recent hunting event held in New Zealand, over 1,500 people participated. Out of these, 440 were minors. Each time, their organization provokes more outrage in society.
According to the residents of New Zealand, wild cats are particularly dangerous for local bird species, whose populations are rapidly declining due to their predation.
