Hilton Head Island, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Hilton Head Island is considering a wildlife management policy that would affect a feral cat colony at the airport, generated by safety concerns following an FAA inspection. The community is divided, with many arguing the cats help control rodents. An online petition to save the cats has garnered 1,600 signatures, while airport staff express fears over potential repercussions if feeding continues under the new rules. The issue is set for further discussion by the Beaufort County Public Facilities Committee.
Hilton Head Island is facing a proposed wildlife management policy that threatens the well-being of a long-established feral cat colony at the Hilton Head Island Airport. The policy aims to prohibit feeding animals within airport boundaries and the surrounding area, a move that has prompted significant community concern. This change was instigated by a recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspection, which raised alarms about animal sightings at the airport.
The feral cat colony has been a staple at the airport for approximately 20 years, with community members, airport employees, and a nearby church providing regular feeding. Among the colony, a particular cat known as Friday has become a beloved figure, viewed as an emotional support animal by many airport workers. If the proposed policy is approved, cats like Friday would be trapped and relocated to a sanctuary by Beaufort County Animal Services and Hilton Head Island Humane.
The proposed regulations not only aim to protect the cat colony but also intend to humanely deter wildlife from airport property altogether, addressing broader safety concerns regarding animals around the airport. As part of this recommendation, signs will be posted throughout the airport grounds to inform patrons of the no-feeding rule. Airport employees have expressed concerns about potential retaliatory actions against individuals who continue to feed the cats, should the new rules be enforced.
Community members maintain that the presence of the cat colony has not posed a significant issue for the airport. In fact, they argue that the colony assists in controlling local rodent populations, contributing positively to airport operations. An online petition titled “Save Friday the Cat,” which has gathered over 1,600 signatures, is an example of public support rallying behind the cats’ continued existence at the airport.
The airport’s director emphasized that the policy addresses not only the welfare of the feline colony but also broader safety issues as part of the airport’s commitment to comply with FAA guidelines, ensuring the safety of passengers and animals alike. Additionally, new rules could result in the termination of agreements with airport tenants if violations occur regarding the prohibition of feeding animals.
The issue is scheduled for further consideration by the Beaufort County Public Facilities Committee, where stakeholders will discuss the implications of the proposed policy moving forward.
Impact of the Proposed Policy
- The proposed policy aims to relocate the feral cat colony at Hilton Head Island Airport.
- This change is motivated by safety concerns following an FAA inspection.
- Community members argue the cats contribute to controlling rodent populations.
- Supporters have launched an online petition to save Friday and the other cats.
Potential Outcomes
- If approved, cats will be trapped and relocated to a sanctuary.
- Signage will be posted to enforce the no-feeding rule.
- Failure to adhere to the policy could lead to the termination of agreements with airport tenants.
Background Context
The feral cat colony has been a part of the airport’s ecosystem for nearly two decades. The involvement of local community members, including church groups, highlights the emotional connection people have established with these animals. As the situation evolves, it will be crucial to balance wildlife management with community sentiment and safety regulations.
FAQ
What is the proposed wildlife management policy discussing?
The proposed wildlife management policy may soon relocate a cat colony that has roamed near Hilton Head Island Airport for years.
Why was the policy proposed?
The policy was prompted by concerns raised during a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspection, which noted animal sightings at the airport.
How long has the cat colony been at the airport?
The cat colony has been at the airport for approximately 20 years.
What will happen if the policy is approved?
If approved, Beaufort County Animal Services and Hilton Head Island Humane would trap and relocate the cats to a sanctuary.
What is the online petition ‘Save Friday the Cat’ about?
An online petition titled “Save Friday the Cat” has garnered over 1,600 signatures supporting the cat’s stay at the airport.
What impact could the policy have on airport operations?
The new rules could lead to the termination of agreements with airport tenants if violations occur.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Aim | Relocate the cat colony from Hilton Head Island Airport |
| Cause for Policy | Concerns from an FAA inspection about animal safety |
| Colonization Duration | Approximately 20 years |
| Community Support | Online petition “Save Friday the Cat” with over 1,600 signatures |
| If Approved Action | Trapping and relocation of cats to a sanctuary |
| Potential Consequence | Termination of airline tenant agreements for policy violations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island Airport’s Cat Colony Faces Relocation Threat
Hilton Head Airport’s No-Feeding Policy Threatens Local Cat Colony
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Proposed Wildlife Management Policy
- Wikipedia: Feral Cat
- Post and Courier: Hilton Head Airport Cats Policy
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island Airport Cats
- WSAV: Hilton Head Development and Feral Cat Sanctuary
- Google Scholar: Wildlife Management
- Island Packet: Local News Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildlife Management
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
