Fact Check: "Cats kill approximately four billion birds annually in the United States."
What We Know
The claim that cats kill approximately four billion birds annually in the United States is supported by multiple studies and reports. A systematic review conducted by researchers estimated that free-ranging domestic cats kill between 1.3 and 4.0 billion birds each year in the U.S., with the majority of this mortality attributed to un-owned cats (those that are feral or stray) (source). This finding aligns with other reputable sources, such as the American Bird Conservancy, which states that outdoor cats are responsible for killing approximately 2.4 billion birds annually (source).
Additionally, a report from Science News corroborates these figures, indicating that cats kill between 1.3 billion and 4.0 billion birds each year, confirming the significant impact of both pet and feral cats on bird populations in the U.S. (source).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust, coming from a systematic review that utilized a comprehensive methodology to estimate bird mortality caused by free-ranging cats. The study's authors emphasized that previous estimates were often speculative and lacked a scientific basis, making their findings particularly valuable (source).
The reliability of the sources cited is high. The systematic review published in a peer-reviewed journal provides a transparent methodology and a data-driven approach to estimating wildlife mortality (source). The American Bird Conservancy and Science News are also credible organizations that focus on wildlife conservation and scientific reporting, respectively (source, source).
While there are variations in the estimated numbers, the consensus among these sources indicates that the mortality rate is indeed significant and falls within the range of 1.3 to 4.0 billion birds killed annually by cats. The emphasis on un-owned cats as the primary contributors to this mortality highlights the need for effective management strategies to mitigate their impact on wildlife.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that cats kill approximately four billion birds annually in the United States is substantiated by multiple credible sources and studies. The systematic review provides a scientifically sound estimate, and corroborating reports from reputable organizations reinforce the validity of these figures. The consensus among experts indicates that the impact of free-ranging domestic cats on bird populations is substantial, warranting attention and action.
Sources
- The impact of free-ranging domestic cats on wildlife of the United States - Nature
- Cats and Birds | American Bird Conservancy - ABC Birds
- How Many Birds Do Cats Kill? 13 Statistics to Know: 2025 Update - Catster
- Cats kill more than one billion birds each year - Science News
