BFAB brings out new book for youngsters on feral cats
Local youngsters will have a purr-fect opportunity to learn how to help feral cats on the Island, thanks to a new book being donated by the Bermuda Feline Assistance Bureau (BFAB).With the help of a local donor, BFAB has brought in educational children’s book ‘Fairminded Fran and the Three Small Black Community Cats’, by American author Dr Linda Elder.Some of the books are being donated to local libraries, as well as to public and private schools around the Island. The rest will be available for purchase at the SPCA Fair, taking place on Saturday, in the Botanical Gardens; as well as in the Washington Mall in honour of World Feral Cat Day on Wednesday (October 16).The book is described as a beautifully illustrated tale of a young girl, Fran, who notices some stray cats at her school and seeks help from the adults in her life to save them.Although geared towards children, a BFAB spokeswoman said there was a lot of new information that adults could benefit from as well.“There’s quite a lot of details at the back of the book about the author, how this book came about and the foundation she is involved with.“There’s also some interesting questions posed that give you details about the Trap, Neuter and Release programme, which is what we at BFAB believe in.“The areas where feral cat populations used to be now they are pretty much all neutered. We keep on saying the responsibility lies with humans, but many people are not actually working to help us with this problem.”She said BFAB was one of the few organisation dedicated to controlling the feline population on Island since 1992.It’s hoped that younger people will be inspired from this book educate themselves more so they can help with the cause, the spokeswoman said.“The book teaches younger people about the Trap, Neuter and Release programme and I hope that parents who read it with their children learn a lot more and feel comfortable contacting us if they have any questions.“We want to get more people in the community engaging with us to help solve the feral cat situation we have in Bermuda.“It’s not a big problem, but it’s still a concern and unfortunately when it’s not controlled it can quickly get out of hand,” she added.‘Fairminded Fran and the Three Small Black Community Cats’ is available for $10. All proceeds go towards BFAB’s spay/neuter programme.For more information on BFAB, visit www.bfab.bm. You can also like the group on Facebook (Bermuda Feline Assistance Bureau) or leave a message on the group’s voicemail: 291-1737.