A recent incident involving the death of a nēnē gosling due to toxoplasmosis at Queen Lili‘uokalani Park and Gardens in Hilo has prompted wildlife managers to take action. Raymond McGuire, a wildlife biologist with the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife, expressed concern over the ongoing feeding of feral cats in the area, stating, "They continue to feed the cats, and it doesn’t seem like the loss of the gosling has really made a difference in how often they feed."
McGuire has been actively involved in removing cat food left out in the park, emphasizing the need to address the harmful impact of these feeding practices on native wildlife. He highlighted the disconnect between cat feeders and wildlife protectors, noting the detrimental effects on not only nēnē but also critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals.
Jordan Lerma, representing Nēnē Research and Conservation, echoed the importance of finding common ground between animal lovers and conservation efforts. Lerma emphasized the need for collaboration to prioritize the well-being of native species in the face of challenges posed by feral cat populations. He mentioned the introduction of a cat mapping tool to better understand the extent of the issue on Hawai‘i Island, where feral cat populations are estimated to range between 500,000 to 1,000,000.
Lerma emphasized the importance of facilitating conversations with authorities to provide resources for individuals dedicated to caring for animals, while also addressing the impact of feral cats on native wildlife. The goal is to work together towards solutions that benefit both animal welfare and conservation efforts.
The tragic incident involving the nēnē gosling has sparked a renewed focus on addressing the issue of harmful cat feeding practices in Hilo Park, with stakeholders aiming to promote coexistence between feral cats and native wildlife for a sustainable future.