On Friday night, 20/20 (An ABC TV news program) aired a segment called "Kitty Cam" to follow the activities of outdoor pet cats. At the crux is the claim that cats are serial cat killers. Unfortunately, ABC News did not conduct any in-depth, professional, journalistic investigation and failed to consult, interview, or include cat experts.
Not surprising, George Fenwick, President of the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) claimed that cats are responsible for the extinction of 33 bird species (yet Mr. Fenwick couldn't name even two). This group has yet to conduct and publish a scientifically reliable study about the effects of outdoor cats on bird population.
Peter Wolf, of Vox Felina judiciously reads, studies and tracks all the organizations, government bodies, and researchers that claim to study cats and bird populations. Bottomline: outdoor cats are not responsible for the decline in bird populations.
At Pawsitively Humane, Inc we work hard to educate the public and overturn misconceptions about stray cats. When misleading reports like this are aired, it sets us back.
As animal lovers and pet owners, we can ask 20/20 to do the right thing and conduct a followup with a balanced report.
We ask that you please sign this petition.
Second, here is the online form to share your comments with ABC News.
Many thanks for your part in educating the public and helping millions of falsely portrayed cats.
Hi Guys,
ReplyDeleteThat's so unfair that they're getting the blame when they're not the problem :(
Did you ever see when Mum tried to spy on me with one of those cameras? Let's just say the camera didn't last too long!! Tee Hee
Wags to all,
Your pal Snoopy :)