City of Darwin is calling on the community to help track roaming and stray cats across the city through the FeralScan Cat Tracking Project, running from August 2025 to February 2026. 

By logging sightings of cats using the free FeralScan app, residents will contribute to valuable data collection that helps guide local education and initiatives and supports broader efforts to protect local wildlife. The data will also be provided to the Northern Territory Government, which is responsible for managing feral animal populations. 

“Roaming cats pose a real risk to our native animals, and they are also more likely to get injured, become unwell or lost,” said City of Darwin CEO, Simone Saunders. 

“This project is an important step in understanding where roaming and stray cats are being seen in our city. By getting involved, residents are helping create a safer environment for both cats and local wildlife.” Ms Saunders added.  

How to Get Involved: 

• Download the free FeralScan app via the Google Play or Apple App Store. 

• Log sightings of roaming or stray cats in your neighbourhood. 

• Share the project with neighbours, friends and local groups. 

• Keep cats safe at home to reduce the risk of injury and impact on native animals. 

There will be an information session on Saturday 2 August 2025 at 9:00 am at Lake Alexander in East Point Reserve near the playground.  

This free community info session is a great opportunity to learn more about the campaign and how to use the FeralScan app. A Wildcare Inc. NT advocate will speak about the impact of roaming cats on native wildlife, and a special animal guest! Enjoy soft drinks, juice and snacks, and get creative with painting supplies available for kids (and adults too).  

A limited number of chairs will be provided, so attendees are encouraged to bring a chair. 

Pet owners, wildlife enthusiasts, and community members, are encouraged to take part to make Darwin a safer place for pets, people and native wildlife. 

For more information, visit darwin.nt.gov.au/cats or download the FeralScan scan to get started today.