Field Evaluation of Olfactory Lures for Feral Cats (Felis catus L.) in Central Australia

Abstract

Field trials were conducted in central Australia to evaluate the ability of various olfactory lures to attract feral cats (Felis catus L.). Ten food-based lures, one plant extract and two scent-based lures (anal-gland preparations from male and female cats) were evaluated on the basis of visitation rates and elicited behavioural responses. A visual lure composed of bird feathers was also tested in conjunction with the scent-based lures. One food-based lure (sun-rendered prawn) and both of the scent-based lures were found to attract feral cats. The visual lure did not enhance the attractiveness of the scent-based lures. The possible uses and relative advantages of these lures in control programmes and in ecological studies of cats are discussed.