Iconic naturalist Sir David Attenborough has issued urgent advice to cat owners in the UK, urging them to make a simple change if their pets spend time outdoors. Britain is home to over 10 million pet cats, but this large feline population poses a significant threat to birds.
Attenborough's Warning in New BBC Series
In his latest BBC1 series, Secret Gardens, which premiered on April 5, 2026, as part of his 100th birthday celebrations, Attenborough highlighted the importance of gardens. He stated: "Across the British Isles, there are magical places, our gardens. Each is home to a cast of remarkable animals." He noted that some British gardens are nearly as diverse as tropical rainforests and cover a greater area than all national nature reserves combined.
The Threat to Birds
The series revealed that Britain's cat population kills an estimated 55 million birds annually. Attenborough did not demonize cats but offered a straightforward solution to minimize harm to garden birds.
Simple Solution: Fit a Bell
Attenborough recommends fitting a bell to a cat's collar to reduce hunting success by a third. The bell provides birds with a warning, cutting the chances of a surprise attack. This affordable measure helps keep gardens safe havens for wildlife.
Additional Tips for Cat Owners
- Keep cats indoors during dawn and dusk, when birds are most active and cats are prime hunters.
- Position bird feeders higher, at least 2 meters away from thick vegetation, to prevent ambushes.
- Use enclosed bird feeders for extra protection.
- Avoid placing feeders near potential launch pads like decking, fences, or planters.
These adjustments can transform gardens into safe sanctuaries for all wildlife.
