Regardless the fact that cat was living in obviously feral conditions, but a human was feeding and taking care of the animal, this cat had its natural instinct of predation targeting endangered shorebirds, according to the article. So, I would vote for conviction or some sort of penalty of Mr. Stevenson, because he has no right to kill an animal. He should of contact the proper authorities first and let them investigate; make a decision to deal with the cat. In regards to the argument that the cat belonged to some one, it may help in court in favor of the animal. However, the fact that the toll worker did not take the cat home and properly took care of it, take it to the veterinarian, for instance and properly taking care of the cat as a pet, to me this animal was feral cat living in the wild and that was responsibility of the local animal control