A feral cat-hunting contest for kids in New Zealand is scrapped after a backlash
The competition withdrew its new category after pushback from animal rights groups. The controversy highlights a broader debate over how to manage the invasive species.
Organizers of a New Zealand hunting contest are pawing their way out of controversy after canceling an event that would have seen children 14 and under compete to kill the most feral cats.
The North Canterbury Hunting Competition is open to both kids and adults, and aims to manage invasive species and raise money for local causes — specifically, a school and pool in the rural village of Rotherham.
Last year, more than 250 children killed 427 animals, mostly possums, hares and rabbits, according to The Guardian.
Organizers added a new category this year, announcing in a since-deleted$155. And they warned that anyone who produced a microchipped cat — meaning one that belonged to someone — would have their entire entry disqualified.
