HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.190 2024-2026From: Anela Oh
Sent: Monday, July 7, 2025 8:56 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51
Aloha a Councilmembers,
I strongly support Bill 51, which prohibits feeding feral animals on County property, to protect Hawai'i's endangered
native species. As someone who has witnessed the devastating impacts of feral cats on our wildlife, I urge you to pass
this critical measure.
Feeding feral cats sustains populations that kill native birds and spread deadly diseases like toxoplasmosis. Just this year,
a nene gosling died from this parasite after eating cat food in Lili'uokalani Gardens —proof that feeding stations directly
harm protected species. Feral cats don't stay confined to urban areas; they roam into critical habitats, preying on
vulnerable birds like the palila on Mauna Kea. Every fed cat increases the threat to our already dwindling native species.
Public parks should be safe for families, not overrun by feral animals. Feeding attracts cats, pigs, and chickens, creating
unsanitary conditions and damaging public spaces. Allowing permitted feeding would only worsen the problem,
encouraging more abandonment and ecological harm. Hawai'i cannot afford to prioritize invasive animals over native
wildlife —not when species like the nene are fighting for survival.
Bill 51 aligns with science and conservation goals. TNR programs fail to protect wildlife, and feeding only prolongs the
crisis. We must act now to stop preventable deaths of our native species. Please pass Bill 51 without exemptions —our
ecosystems depend on it.
Mahalo for your commitment to preserving Hawai'i's natural heritage. %all
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Sincerely,
Anela Oh '_s
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