A 12-year study of street cats in Rome has revealed how to successfully control population numbers. Rome has a large population of free-roaming cats estimated at 152,000. The study found that the most effective way to control their numbers is to "Trap, Neuter, and Release" (TNR).

The study, which was published in the journal "Animals", monitored 115 street cats in Rome over 12 years. The cats were divided into two groups: one group was sterilized and released, while the other group was not.

The study found that the population of sterilized cats declined over the 12-year study period, while the population of unsterilized cats increased. This suggests that TNR is an effective way to control street cat populations.

In addition to reducing cat populations, TNR also has several other benefits. It helps to reduce the spread of disease, as well as the number of unwanted kittens. It also reduces the number of cats that are abandoned or killed by animal control.

Overall, the study found that TNR is a humane and effective way to control street cat populations. Rome is one of the most important places in the world for studying the ecology and management of street cats.