Millions of Birds Die Each Year at the Hands of Mr. Puddy Tat

Warm weather is right around the corner and some cats may be anxious to smell the spring air through the windows. Please let that be as far as it goes. Outdoor cats are estimated to kill 500 million birds per year.

Even the sweetest cats still have the instincts of their wild ancestors. When something flutters by, they must swat it down. Cats do what comes natural but you can help wildlife by restricting their access outside.

I just talked with the local wildlife rehabilitator and she told me she's raising two baby squirrels right now that a local lady's cat brought home. If you find an injured bird or squirrel click HERE for a list people that can help. Or for a complete list of Michigan Licensed Rehabilitators visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at: http://www.michigandnr.com/dlr/

So keep your cat inside so they don't bring home any little surprises. It’s also healthier for them to remain inside the house. The American Bird Conservancy has developed a campaign – called Cats Indoors! – to educate cat owners about the damage their pets can do to songbirds, other wildlife and themselves by freely roaming the outdoors.  

For more information, visit http://www.abcbirds.org/abcprograms/policy/cats/

This doesn't mean that they can't enjoy a neat window feeder or a nice feeder set up outside. About half of our customers begin birdwatching as a way to entertain their cats during the day.

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