I have to admit, the feathered ferals that populate my back lawn can occasionally be of some use, other than a food source. Take yesterday afternoon, for instance, when new local resident, Maine Coon Princess wandered across my back lawn.

If it were not for her regal charm and impeccable pedigreed I would have asked her to leave at once, but I must admit her presence was somewhat of a spectacle to behold. Not so much a spectacle as what was to happen next though!

Unbeknownst to me, the local family of Minor Birds, (who unfairly persist in blaming me all manner of misfortunes that befall them), targeted said intruder and the unfortunate Feline was forced to make an unsightly clamber over our back paling fence. Such a pity.

My Staff then arrived to witness Princess' continued embarrassment as her pedigreed paws were again herded over the next door neighbours fences, and toward the pavement, followed by a squawking chorus of Minors .

'Do call again!' I mewed,

I always appreciate a good action replay!

Russian Blue Nikita would like to know,

'I spend many hours controlling the Bird population on my hunting grounds;however, my Staff persist on feeding the flying ferals each evening – which only encourages them to return. Aunty Holly, I feel as though my authority is being undermined, what should I do?'

Dear Nikita, your Staff are obviously only helping to supplement your food source. The Birds will be plump and succulent well into the winter months. Embrace your Staffs' initiatives and encourage a range of hunting opportunities within your domain. You Staff efforts may also attract a tasty array of small possums and native mice .

Puurrfectly yours,

Aunty Holly