SEOUL, Feb. 20 (Korea Bizwire) — Jeju Island and the Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) are gearing up for a massive cat capture operation on Marado, an island off the southern coast of Jeju Island, due to concerns that cats are attacking the natural monument horn duck.
The horned duck is a rare bird and is designated as a natural monument and endangered wildlife class 2, with only 5,000 to 6,000 birds worldwide.
According to reports, cats were brought to Marado 10 years ago, reportedly by humans to catch mice.
However, the ties between cats and Marado residents have become considerable over time, with some of the actual Marado cats being house cats.
In response to the situation, the CHA and the Jeju Provincial Government emphasized the need to protect the endangered horn duck and preserve the World Heritage status of Jeju Island and the other islands off its coast.
They are concerned that failing to protect the horned duck could result in losing World Heritage status.
The CHA has formed a consultative body involving experts, animal groups, and local residents to address the cat problem on Marado Island.
However, officials of the consultative body have expressed displeasure over the decision to capture cats without discussion, with some feeling that they are being used as a mere formality after the decision to “catch and take out cats” was already made.
An internationally endangered hornet has been spotted in waters near Marado (Image courtesy of Jeju branch of the Korea Bird Protection Association)
For an extended period of time, the Hankook Ilbo has been drawing attention to the issue.
The controversy has become a hot topic, stemming from allegations that the CHA acted unilaterally by removing four animals without the consent of the consultative body.
In response, the CHA has released a press statement on Feb 16, denying the allegation that they took out the cats without the consent.
As common knowledge goes, cats are highly territorial creatures. However, growing concerns suggest that if one were to be caught and placed in an unfamiliar environment, their position in relation to cats should also be considered.
This is due to the fact that being a territorial animal, relocating a cat to a new environment can actually result in its demise.
This issue is further highlighted by the fact that even when felines unintentionally find themselves on an island, they are often forced to leave due to human interference.
Recent reports suggest that the current population of Marado boasts approximately 90 human residents, alongside an estimated 110 furry feline inhabitants. As depicted in the accompanying image, this includes a charming cat who calls Marado home. (Image courtesy of a resident living in Marado/HankookIlbo)
Jerry M. Kim (jerry_kim@koreabizwire.com)
