I did read an article that in Los Angeles they used cats to control a rat
problem in one area. It seems that at one time they removed feral cats from
the area and the rodent population exploded. Here in the Phoenix area cats
were suggested last year when the roof rats infested the Arcadia
neighborhood and parts of Scottsdale but the so-called experts said that
wouldn't help. I don't think they thought of a feral colony of cats to take
care of some of the problem. Maybe they will now.

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wrote in message
...
In article OC2Ob.5637$zy3.5542@okepread01,
"Cat Protector" wrote:

Yes but did the colony help to reduce the rat population or at least
keep
them in check?

Without having done a formal count of the rats there, I would give the
colony a thumbs up at rat control. Before I started caring for the
ferals there (about 10 years ago), rats were seen occasionally, even in
broad daylight. The rat ButtonNose had was the first sighting in years
that I know about. Since I'm known as the cat person there, if anyone
saw rats, they'd probably mention it to me as regards the cats.

OTOH, there is lots of wildlife in the area. We've got raccoon, skunk,
possum, and most recently, coyote (which will eat anything they can
catch of course). That may also affect the rat population.

In our home neighborhood, where we are one of at least three
feral-feeding families, we still see the occasional rat on the telephone
wires. I just think we'd see them a LOT more if the cats weren't around.

I believe the cats play a huge role in controlling not only the wild rat
population, but other vermin as well. Unfortunately I don't have any
hard evidence to back it up. I also think well-fed, healthy feral cats
like ButtonNose are more effective as ratters than starved, sick cats.

I do know that the State of California has positioned itself in
opposition to trap-alter-release feral cat programs because it claims
that feral cats are decimating such species as the endangered salt marsh
mouse. I'd expect similar results from surveys counting other rodent
populations near organized feral colonies as well.

All this talk of wildlife and feral care has reminded me to suggest to
all feral colony care people to consider getting a "pre-exposure" series
of shots to immunize yourself against the possibility of rabies.
Everyone involved in wildlife care (which includes those who care for
ferals) should be immunized. Some cities/counties will do it for free,
if you don't have insurance. Check with your local health agency.