A cat living on Eulsukdo Island (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
BUSAN, Jun. 25 (Korea Bizwire) – An animal protection group has filed an administrative appeal against the Cultural Heritage Administration and local authorities for ordering the removal of feral cat feeding stations on Eulsukdo Island, a crucial migratory bird habitat in Busan.
The Korean Alliance for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (KAPCA) held a press conference at the Busan City Council on June 24, asserting that the cat feeding stations and neutering program have been a success story.
“The feral cat population has decreased from about 200 to around 70 as of last year,” a spokesperson stated.
“There have been no reported incidents of cats harming migratory birds during the program’s implementation, yet they’re demanding the removal of the feeding stations.”
According to the group, the Cultural Heritage Administration rejected a request from animal organizations in April to install cat feeding stations in Eulsukdo, located at the Nakdong River estuary.
The Korean Alliance for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (KAPCA) held a press conference at the Busan City Council on June 24. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
The administration cited concerns about severe damage to migratory birds caused by cats as the reason for their decision.
Eulsukdo, designated as a natural monument, is South Korea’s largest stopover for migratory birds, attracting tens of thousands annually.
The issue arose when concerns were raised about abandoned or naturally occurring feral cats preying on birds and eggs in the area.
In response, animal protection groups and local authorities had established feeding stations within the cultural heritage site.
The initiative aimed to address uncontrolled feeding and abandonment issues by regularly distributing food and implementing a neutering program.
A feral cat feeding station on Eulsukdo Island (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
However, following complaints from residents about the feral cat feeding stations, the Cultural Heritage Administration asked animal protection groups to remove the stations, which had been operating without official permission.
Animal rights activists argue that the feeding stations are necessary to protect migratory birds.
In a statement, the KAPCA noted, “The Cultural Heritage Administration and local authorities are reinforcing the misguided perception in our society that feral cats negatively impact wild birds, exacerbating social conflicts.”
The group has filed administrative appeals against both the Saha District Office and the Cultural Heritage Administration.
The hearing for the appeal against the Saha District Office is scheduled for June 25, while the date for the appeal against the Cultural Heritage Administration has not yet been set.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
