Feral cats find shelter and companionship at Hilton Head Island Airport, as they face a potential feeding ban.
A proposed feeding policy at Hilton Head Island Airport threatens the well-being of a colony of feral cats that has been cared for by employees and locals for over 20 years. As concerns about airport safety and wildlife management grow, airport staff and community members rally to support their beloved feline friends, igniting a petition to protect them. The proposal is still under review, pending further discussions with the public Facilities and Safety Committee.
At the charming Hilton Head Island Airport, there’s a growing concern that might ruffle a few feathers – or in this case, stir up some kitty paws. For over 20 years, a colony of feral cats has made the airport their home, thanks to the kindness of airport employees and local cat lovers who have provided regular feedings. However, a proposed policy threatens to change all that and has many wondering what will happen to their beloved feline friends.
As we look ahead to late 2024, a new policy is being proposed that would prohibit feeding animals on or near airport property. This announcement came after a recent inspection by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) raised concerns about animal sightings that could pose risks to airport safety. The intent behind this policy isn’t just about the cats; it’s part of a greater initiative focusing on broader wildlife management that aims to mitigate risks associated with larger mammals and birds that might be drawn to feeding sites.
The cats have made themselves comfortable at a small shelter located near the airport’s overflow parking lot. This urban kitty café attracts various furballs who’ve found a home amidst the hustle and bustle of airport life. However, feeding them, while seemingly harmless, raises concerns among airport officials who worry about the possibility of larger critters coming to the party, potentially leading to safety issues for air traffic.
Airport employees, who have taken it upon themselves to care for these homeless felines, are feeling the pinch of the proposed rule. The fear of facing job repercussions has created an emotional atmosphere, especially since they’ve developed strong bonds with the cats. One cat in particular, an emotional support cat named Friday, has become the heart and soul of the airport staff, providing companionship and joy in a busy work environment. In response to the proposed ban, supporters have created a petition titled ‘Save Friday the Cat‘, amassing over 1,400 signatures from community members and visitors alike.
Among those expressing their worries is Kathleen Schettler, a security worker at the airport. With the proposed polices looming overhead, she voiced her concerns about more than just potential job loss; it reflects a larger issue about compassion for animals in our community.
The draft of this feeding policy isn’t set in stone, as it will get another look at the upcoming meetings of the public Facilities and Safety Committee. There, committee members hope to address numerous questions raised by the community and airport employees after the initial announcement. Once the committee has finished its discussions, the proposal will be sent to the county council for further consideration.
Thankfully, the feline community has some passionate allies. A nonprofit organization, which focuses on reducing the feral cat population while providing them much-needed veterinary care, has lent its support to the cats of Hilton Head Island Airport. Local residents and airport staff argue
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