Feral cats, often referred to as County Cats in many regions, are known for their sharp instincts and adaptability, traits that can make trapping them for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs a real challenge. This was certainly the case in Olney, Maryland, where dedicated volunteers encountered a particularly clever colony of cats. Despite the difficulties, their commitment to TNR has already made a difference, with two female cats successfully trapped, neutered, and returned, and efforts continuing to help more of these resourceful felines.
To better understand the scale of the situation and the cats’ behavior, the TNR team set up a trail camera. Initially, they were alerted to the presence of just two cats, but the camera revealed a colony of six! Adding to the complexity, these county cats were utilizing the storm sewer system as a highway, allowing them to travel beneath the surface and access not just one, but three different residential subdivisions.
The success of this TNR effort relied heavily on the cooperation of local residents. Understanding the importance of managing the county cat population, neighbors generously allowed the placement of both a trail camera and a drop trap on their properties. To entice these wary felines, volunteers employed a strategy of consistent, irresistible meals. For several nights in a row, tempting food like sardines, tuna, salmon, and canned chicken was strategically placed, slowly building the cats’ confidence and encouraging them to emerge.
Neighbors had mentioned a distinctive “big black cat” that had eluded visual confirmation by the volunteers. However, the trail camera proved invaluable, capturing images of this elusive feline and confirming that he was neither ear-tipped (a sign of previous TNR) nor neutered.
Big black cat captured by trail camera
The camera also provided a heartwarming confirmation of a previous TNR success. “Licorice,” a one-year-old female county cat, was clearly identified. Just the previous month, this very team had successfully trapped, neutered, and returned her. The camera image clearly displayed the telltale ear tip, along with her distinctive white chest marking.
Black female county cat named Licorice with ear tip
Another county cat, a black-and-white “tuxedo” female, had only been briefly sighted by volunteers about two months prior. The trail camera revealed a different story – she was a frequent visitor! Despite rarely being seen by humans, she consistently appeared in the late evenings and throughout the night. This stealthy tuxedo cat is now spayed, vaccinated, and ear-tipped, thanks to the persistence of the TNR efforts.
