The Dudley Peninsula Feral Cat Eradication Project represents one of Australia’s most ambitious feral animal eradications. Feral cats are recognised nationally as a key threatening process for small-bodied mammals and ground-nesting birds, and on Kangaroo Island their impact is magnified by the island’s globally significant endemic species.
Led by the Kangaroo Island Landscape Board, this project combines advanced surveillance technologies with strategic control measures across public and private land. Smart camera networks, remote trap-alert systems and grid-based survey designs allow teams to rapidly detect and respond to feral cat presence. Engagement with First Nations groups ensures Traditional Ecological Knowledge informs operational planning and community connection.
This focused eradication effort is already delivering strong outcomes on Dudley Peninsula, reducing predator pressure and creating safe haven areas where native wildlife — including the critically endangered Kangaroo Island dunnart — can persist and recover.
Funded by the Australian Government, the Government of South Australia, the Ian Potter Foundation, Purryburry Trust, Nature Foundation South Australia, Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, Fouress Foundation, University of Adelaide, Atkinson Livestock, Patagonia Foundation, eVorta, and other public donations.
“This project shows what’s possible when cutting-edge science, deep local collaboration and long-term commitment come together to support critically endangered wildlife and primary producers.”
