In 2010, the United States trapped and removed every feral cat from California’s San Nicolas Island after decades of predation on native wildlife; rare seabirds and endemic species began recovering.

Feral cats, an invasive predator, were removed from San Nicolas Island after decades of harm. Conservationists carefully planned and executed a live-trapping and relocation program to protect native species. Endangered birds began nesting in larger numbers after the cats were gone from the island. Native reptiles and small mammals also thrived without the constant predatory pressure from felines.