Cats in the city: urban cat distribution is influenced by habitat characteristics, anthropogenic factors, and the presence of coyotes

Abstract

The free-ranging cat (Felis catus) is an invasive carnivore that can inflict extensive mortality on wildlife. The New York metropolitan area, the most densely populated region of the United States, is home to several urban greenspaces that support local populations of wildlife. It is currently unknown to what extent free-ranging cats make use of these greenspaces and what factors influence their distribution. To address these gaps, we used motion-activated cameras to survey free-ranging cat occupancy and detection probability in 31 major greenspaces in the New York metropolitan area. We compared the daily detection rate of free-ranging cats to other local carnivores and investigated anthropogenic and ecological variables predicted to influence their occupancy and detection probability. Finally, because the eastern coyote (Canis latrans) has expanded its historic range and now occupies several greenspaces in the New York metropolitan area, we tested whether free-ranging cats avoid habitats occupied by coyotes. Our study yielded three main results. First, free-ranging cats were documented in all 31 greenspaces surveyed and were second only to the raccoon (Procyon lotor) in terms of daily rate of detection. Second, free-ranging cat occupancy and detection probability were significantly higher in greenspaces with smaller patch areas that were surrounded by more developed land cover and lower densities of humans. Third, free-ranging cat detection probability was significantly lower in habitats where coyotes were present. Because cats are an invasive species that can cause extensive mortality on urban wildlife, these findings may inform conservation practices and help protect vulnerable species.