Welcome to the American Ornithological Society 2018 Annual Conference. We are pleased to have you join us at the lovely Hilton El Conquistador Resort in Tucson, AZ.
U.S. Federal legislation, particularly the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), clearly includes provisions that could respond to the threat of cat predation at least on threatened and endangered bird populations. Yet, with the notable exception of the American Bird Conservancy's lawsuit under the ESA, the legal responses have been limited. There appear to be significant political and cultural obstacles to using available legal strategies. As the scientific evidence of the impact of cat predation on bird populations grows, however, conservationists will look increasingly to use national and international law. This survey explores potential legal theories available under US law, including the ESA, MBTA, and various statutes governing public lands management. The survey will also explore legal approaches in other countries including Australia and New Zealand, and the potential role of international treaties such as the Convention on Migratory Species or the Convention on Biological Diversity. Emerging from the survey is a potential strategy for addressing the gaps in the legal framework and strengthening the application of existing provisions.
