14 August 2017
The Marine Section of the Environment & Natural Resources Directorate has been monitoring the Red-Billed Tropicbird Colony on the slopes of Ladder Hill and the old Firing Range for the last four years, as part of a seabird tracking project. The low breeding level of these birds is caused by the action of cats and domestic dogs. To mitigate the effects of predation on the colony, the Marine Section will continue trapping of feral cats in key areas.
Owners of dogs are reminded that their pets must be kept on a leash and not allowed to wander unsupervised. Under the Dog & Cat Ordinance 2011, the owner or keeper of a dog can be fined up to £500 for allowing their dog to wander unsupervised or uncontrolled in any public place.
As cat trapping continues in the monitoring area, cats that are not microchipped will be destroyed. Owners of cats and dogs are reminded that their pets must be microchipped and licensed by the age of seven months.
The veterinary surgeon at the Agriculture & Natural Resources Division (ANRD) offers cat & dog neutering, with the microchip inserted at the same time. If a cat is neutered, the licence is free and issued once for life.
Neutering costs £5 for a male cat and £7 for a female. Male dogs cost £8 and females £12. Micro-chipping only costs £3.
Anyone requiring further information can contact the Veterinary Section at ANRD on tel: 24724.
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SHG
14 August 2017