Walldorf (dpa / lsw) - The nationwide curfew for cats in Walldorf (Rhein-Neckar-Kreis) to protect rare birds will be shortened by a good two weeks this year. The district office in Heidelberg announced on Monday that house cats could be granted free rein again from August 15th. Due to the weather conditions, the young birds of the crested lark are already so far developed that free-roaming cats no longer pose a significant threat. The "Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung" had previously reported on it.
Since mid-May and in the next three years from April to actually the end of August, cats have not been allowed to roam through the breeding grounds of the rare crested larks in the south of the city of Walldorf - unless they are put on a short leash or verifiably do not move in areas where they can pose a threat to animals. Violations are subject to fines. Exemptions can be applied for and are subject to conditions. The measure had caused a nationwide sensation and triggered a lot of criticism.
