Predation and Its Impact on Dune Habitat

Animals living in Perdido Key beach dune habitat face challenges beyond wind, waves, heat and lack of fresh water. They confront and fall prey to predators who seek out food within the natural food chain. The red fox, a non native predator on Perdido Key, will hunt and eat beach mice. Another non-native which will eat a mouse if given the opportunity, is the coyote. Native predators such as eastern diamond rattlesnakes, coachwhip snakes, owls and some other birds will also hunt and eat mice.

While much predation is natural, a good number of beach mice and endangered bird species are killed by domestic animals allowed to roam free on island beaches. Scientists estimate that cats kill hundreds of millions of birds each year and three times as many small mammals nationwide. Perdido Key is home to several endangered species of birds and animals, making even one domestic cat kill one too many.

Cats who roam are in danger themselves. Cars, animal attacks, human cruelty, disease, parasites, poisons and traps are all hazards for the free roaming cat. The average life expectancy of an outdoor cat is just two to five years, while an indoor cat may survive for 17 or more years. In addition, unaltered free roaming cats contribute to cat overpopulation. Each year, millions of cats without homes are euthanized due to overpopulation.

Free roaming and feral cats have no place at the seashore. Spay and neuter animals and keep pets indoors to insure their health and that of the animals who call beach dune habitat home.

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The Nature of Perdido Key Beach Dune Habitat

The Perdido Key Beach Mouse

The Situation

Other Beach and Dune Dwellers

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Economics of Dune Habitat