(NOTE: An online petition in support of the Westmoreland Street feral cat colony has begun, sponsored by the Richmond SPCA. Visit the petition HERE.)

Richmond-area animal rights groups are expressing outrage after several feral cats were killed on the property of a local television station.

The three cats were exterminated by a company called "Critter Control" at WRLH Fox-35's studios on Westmoreland Street. Critter Control was contracted by the station to take car of the feral cats.

Wednesday, the FOX station took more action by hiring contractors to destroy the cats' habitat.

Thursday, the station's general manager, Steven Genett, issued the following statement:

"A colony of feral cats is living behind WRLH. We have contacted a number of organizations to help with the humane and non-lethal removal of these animals over the next few days."

There is no word yet which which organizations have been contacted.

Sources said the company was called because cats were scratching cars and destroying property, despite the fact that animal care groups had offered their help.

In a statement, Keith Copi with Critter Control said "In my personal view, I have compassion for animals but people have a right to protect their property.  These are animals as wild as can be, these are not someone's pet."

Animal rights groups see the case in a different light. Many have already left food and water for the animals, and call the killings inhumane.

One animal-rights advocate suggests using traps.

"The animals are humanely trapped, seen by a vet," said Save Our Shelters' Peggy Lynch. "They are vaccinated for for rabies and then they are sterilized and returned to the only home that they know under the care of a care-giver."

The Richmond SPCA is also actively getting involved with this case. CEO Robin Starr was said she offered to help neuter or relocate the cats, but her offers were ignored.

Anyone interested in providing outdoor homes for these feral cats can call 288-9797.

Stay with 8News for updates.

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