News Summary

The Hilton Head Island Airport is contemplating a new wildlife management policy that may lead to the relocation of its long-established feral cat colony. The proposed policy prohibits feeding animals within airport boundaries, sparking concern among airport employees and local residents. The fate of cats like ‘Friday,’ considered an emotional support animal, hangs in the balance as community members express their opposition to the new regulations. Discussions are set for March 17, 2025, with a petition already gaining traction against the feeding policy.

Hilton Head Island Considers Feeding Policy That Threatens Airport’s Feral Cat Colony

The Hilton Head Island Airport is facing potential changes to its long-established cat colony, which has been sustained by airport employees and the local community for many years.

Proposed Policy Details

• A new wildlife management policy could lead to the relocation of the airport’s cat colony.
• The policy prohibits feeding animals within airport boundaries and surrounding areas.
• Concerns exist about possible retaliatory actions against airport workers who feed the cats.

Impact on Cats

Among the approximately four cats affected by the proposed policy, “Friday,” a friendly tuxedo cat, is recognized as an emotional support animal by airport staff.

Background and Policy Rationale

• The amended policy was prompted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspection that noted animal sightings on or near airport property.
• A wildlife assessment recommended a no-feeding policy due to various animal sightings.

Upcoming Discussions

The Public Facilities Committee will discuss the proposed policy on March 17, 2025. If approved:

• Beaufort County Animal Services and Hilton Head Island Humane would manage trapping and relocating the cats.
• A petition titled “Save Friday the Cat” has already gathered over 1,600 signatures, urging the County Council to reject the feeding policy.

Community Response

Residents argue the cat colony has not posed any safety issues for the airport over the years. However, Beaufort County officials emphasize the necessity of complying with FAA safety regulations for both passengers and wildlife.

Support for the Colony

• All About Cats, a nonprofit, has been assisting the cat colony since 2016, focusing on population control and veterinary care.
• The sanctuary, purchased by Claudia Kennedy in 2011, supports many feral cats on the island.
• All cats at the sanctuary are neutered and cared for by volunteers using a trap-neuter-return strategy to manage the population.

An airport employee has expressed interest in adopting Friday, while the other cats, if relocated, would be moved to the All About Cats sanctuary.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Unique Valentine’s Day Celebrations in South Carolina’s Lowcountry
John Paul II Catholic School Launches Lacrosse Teams
Hilton Head Airport’s No-Feeding Policy Threatens Local Cat Colony
York County Issues Rabies Alert After Encounter with Rabid Skunk
York County Faces Increased Rabies Risk Following Positive Skunk Test
Exciting Adoption Event Successfully Helps Pets Find Forever Homes in Savannah
Hilton Head Island Former Marine Sentenced for Animal Cruelty After Neglecting Pets
African Serval on the Loose in Chester County Following House Fire: Officials Caution Residents to Stay Vigilant
Actor Tony Cavalero Lends Support to Overcrowded South Carolina Animal Shelter: Uses Fame to Advocate for Kitten Adoption

Additional Resources

• The Post and Courier: Hilton Head Airport Cats Policy
• Wikipedia: Feral Cats
• Island Packet: Local News Article
• Google Search: Hilton Head Island Airport cats
• WSAV: Hilton Head Development and Feral Cat Sanctuary
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Cat
• The Post and Courier: Hilton Head Airport Cats