[LINK] "Cats disappearing in Charlottetown"

[rfmcdonald]

Because of Prince Edward Island's relatively high population density and very large proportion of cultivated land, by the end of the 19th century Islanders had killed the large predators (like bears) while decimating old-growth forests. Of late, as cultivated land has given way to second-growth forest, small predators have returned. In rural areas, for instance, coyotes have become quite notable, such that it's a bad idea to let your pet cats and dogs roam freely. In the area of the capital of Charlottetown, suburban growth and/or the exploitation of a new ecological niche has led to the rapid growth of the fox population in the city. Guess what's happening now? The Brighton and Victoria Park districts, it's worth noting, are located in the middle of Charlottetown.

Paulette Hooley said she let her cat Red out after supper one night a couple of weeks ago, but the cat never came home.

Hooley looked up and down her street, asked neighbours, and even put a sign up in the local grocery store.

Then she got the bad news.

"One week later I met the mailman, John Pound, and I showed him the picture of Red, and he said he was very sorry to tell me that he found her body just up the street," said Hooley. "He said that something had got it at the neck."

[. . .]

Area residents said they've noticed more foxes in the city and the animals don't seem to be afraid to approach people.

Hooley's mailman said he often sees them on his morning route, especially around the Victoria Park area.

And Norman Sahely said he sees them at night outside his small neighbourhood grocery store. "They must be looking for food. They are coming closer to town now, very boldly," he said.

Provincial wildlife expert Randy Dibblee confirmed foxes are becoming more domesticated, but said he doubts they're responsible for the missing cats.

"In most cases house cats and foxes are seen out playing or jousting on the front lawn," he said. "I think it's rare even for a fox to prey on a cat, but that being said, foxes are capable of killing cats, but seldom do."

Asked about coyotes, Dibblee said: "These things are seen in rural and suburban areas, but again, if they encounter a house cat, coyotes are quite capable of killing them, but they don't key in on them specifically, but they are capable of taking them."