Feral cats are cats that are living and reproducing in the wild. They are not owned or socialised and survive on their own by hunting.
Feral cats pose a significant risk to native wildlife, and property owners have an important role to play in the overall control effort. Rangers can assist with cat trap hire and disposal of captured feral cats.
A bond deposit of $150.00 is payable and refunded when the trap is returned. If the cat trap is not returned within 28 days of hire or if the trap is damaged, your bond will be retained by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River to purchase a replacement trap.
Please phone in advance if you wish to extend your trap hire time (subject to availability).
Traps must only be set on private property.
Set the trap close to dark (late afternoon or early evening) in a place that is sheltered away from the weather e.g. under a tree or behind a log. Cover the trap with a hessian bag, with the open end uncovered.
To attract feral cats, place raw chicken, salami or sardines in an old stocking and attach to the trap hook.
Ensure the trap is not left unattended for more than 12 hours and pet cats are not able to access the trap.
Traps must be checked at first sunrise. If the trap is occupied with a feral cat, contact Ranger Services immediately for collection on mobile 0419 902 540.
If a feral cat is trapped, it must be collected by a Shire of Augusta Margaret River Ranger. If the trap holder disposes of the animal, they may be prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act.
If the trap is occupied with an animal other than a cat, please contact Parks and Wildlife Service as soon as possible.
Feral cats will be taken by the Shire Ranger and scanned for an identification microchip number.
If a registered cat is impounded, the owner will be notified. A registered cat will be kept for 7 days.
Unidentified cats will be kept for 3 days before they are rehomed or euthanised.
