There has been a sharp decline in the lark population in Western Europe
Authorities in the southwestern German city of Waldorf have ordered some cat owners to keep their pets at home until the end of August to protect hooded larks during their breeding season, the Associated Press reported.
The ordinance aims to help save rare birds that shrink their nests on the ground, so they can easily become prey for cats. In recent decades, the population of birds of this species in Western Europe has declined sharply.
Authorities in Waldorf say that “among other things, the survival of the species depends on each rescued chick.”
The order, which applies to all cats in the southern part of the city and will be renewed over the next three years, has caused sadness among pet owners.
The regional daily Rhine-Neckar Zeitung reported that the head of the local animal protection association plans to take legal steps to challenge the order.
“Please keep calm. I can assure you that we will do everything possible to stop this disproportionate measure, “he said.
