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Arte Investigates Divisive Cat Hunting Issue in New Documentary

Over 2,500 cats shot last year in Germany alone. This Arte documentary dares to ask: who's right, cat lovers or hunters?

In this picture, we can see a poster with some text, and images of cats.
In this picture, we can see a poster with some text, and images of cats.

Arte Investigates Divisive Cat Hunting Issue in New Documentary

On Thursday, September 4, at 7:40 p.m., Arte presents 'Re: Hunting Felines?', a documentary exploring the controversial practice of cat hunting. This emotive issue has sparked debate, with animal welfare groups opposing it and hunters viewing felines as pests. The documentary delves into the conflict between cat lovers and hunters, a long-standing issue that has yet to see significant political action.

In several European countries, including Austria, Germany, France, and Switzerland, the hunting of felines is legally permitted. Hobby hunters often view cats as 'problem animals' due to their perceived impact on local wildlife. However, conservation organizations like the Austrian Society for the Protection of Birds report high casualty rates of birds due to cats, suggesting a more nuanced approach is needed.

The documentary will likely explore the emotional impact of this issue, as seen through the eyes of cat owners like Ruth Duscher. Her cat, 'Peach', was tragically shot by an amateur hunter after falling into a live trap. Last year alone, over 2,500 cats were shot in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, many of which were beloved family pets. Despite these figures, political parties and organizations have largely avoided the issue, leaving the conflict unresolved.

The Arte report 'Re: Hunting Felines?' promises to shine a light on this emotive and divisive issue. By exploring the perspectives of cat lovers, hunters, and conservationists, the documentary aims to spark conversation and potentially prompt political action. The documentary airs on Thursday, September 4, at 7:40 p.m. on Arte.

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