HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.226 2024-2026From: Nico Schnack
Sent: Monday, July 7, 2025 9:19 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51
Aloha a Councilmembers,
I strongly support Bill 51 to prohibit feeding feral animals on County property. As someone who has witnessed firsthand
the devastation feral cats cause to Hawai'i's native birds, I urge you to pass this critical measure to protect our
endangered species.
Every time I visit Hawaiian forests for birding, I see feral cats stalking native birds that have no natural defenses against
these invasive predators. The situation is dire —these cats are decimating populations that our ecosystems depend on.
Just this April, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis after eating cat food left in Lili'uokalani Gardens. This preventable
death shows how feeding sustains populations that kill our native wildlife through both predation and disease.
Some suggest allowing permitted feeding, but this would only prolong the harm. Feeding feral cats —whether permitted
or not —directly threatens endangered species and undermines decades of conservation work. The science is clear:
maintaining feral cat colonies through feeding programs doesn't protect wildlife. Our native species are declining while
these invasive predators thrive on human handouts.
I've seen parks overrun with feral animals, their feces contaminating areas where children play and families gather.
Section 15-1 promises safe, beautiful parks for all, but feeding creates hazardous conditions that put people and wildlife
at risk.
Bill 51 offers a compassionate yet science -based solution. True compassion means protecting all of Hawai'i's native
species that are being driven toward extinction. Please pass this bill without exemptions —our native birds and
ecosystems can't wait.
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Mahalo for your service,
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