UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Using population genetic tools to develop a control strategy for feral cats (Felis catus) in Hawaii

Author:
Banko, P. C., Cole, David, Hansen, Heidi, Hess, Steven C.
Title:
Using population genetic tools to develop a control strategy for feral cats (Felis catus) in Hawaii
Periodical:
Wildlife Research
Year:
2007
Volume:
34
Pages:
587-596
Subject:
Felis catus Feral cats Mauna Kea Population genetics
Summary:
The feral cat, (Felis catus), is listed as one of the world's worst invasive alien species' and are frequent predators of endangered Hawaiian birds that includes colonial seabirds, ground-nesting water fowl, and three-nesting passerines. Cats are also known to carry Toxoplasma gondii, which has caused fatal toxoplasmosis in endangered Hawaiian birds and in the Hawaiian monk seals. As a result, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity and population structure of feral cats, (Felis catus), to assess the levels of gene flow and connectivity between populations, to identify potential source populations, to characterize population dynamics, and to evaluate evidence for sex-biased dispersal. Since population genetics can provide information about the demographics and dynamics of invasive species and is beneficial for developing effective control strategies, this method was used in an effort to control the feral cat population on the island of Hawaii. The study areas for this report were in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, North Mauna Kea, and West Mauna Kea as these are critical habitat areas of the endangered Palila bird (Loxioides bailleui).
Label:
Animals
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1071/WR07043
Date:
2007
Collection:
Periodicals