A delegation from the Western Isles Support for Cats and Kittens, based mostly in Stornoway, will now head south to place their expertise and expertise to make use of in controlling “the growing cat colony on Barra”.
In an announcement launched to the media final week, WISCK stated: “As the only organisation in the Western Isles focusing on the trapping, neutering, and release of cats, following the departure of national charities years ago, WISCK has taken a stand to support the overwhelmed community and the growing cat colony on Barra.
“This operation highlights the unique challenges faced by remote communities and the critical role that volunteer-run organisations like WISCK play in addressing these issues.”
The organisation was arrange 20 years in the past and depend on donation and fund-raising, in addition to volunteers, to hold out their work.
Explaining the pressing name for help, they stated: “The situation in Barra involves a colony of approximately 20 cats, potentially more, that have congregated at a local residence following the passing of two villagers.
“The lack of natural prey and the cats’ reliance on human provision have escalated the need for intervention to prevent the colony from growing uncontrollably, posing a threat to the scarce local wildlife and the cats’ well-being.”
They added: “WISCK is undertaking the monumental task of trapping the cats, transporting them to Cat Central in Stornoway for health checks, neutering, and ultimately finding them suitable barn or stable homes across the islands.
“This intervention is imperative for the welfare of both the cats and the island’s ecosystem, especially with kitten season looming.”
The work will contain transporting the animals again to their base in Stornoway and it exhibits, they stated, the significance of the work and companies they provide.
“This effort highlights the importance of community and volunteer support in addressing animal welfare issues in the Western Isles.
“WISCK extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible volunteers facilitating the trapping and transportation of the cats from Barra to Stornoway, as well as the generous donors whose contributions are vital to the success of this mission,” they stated.
