Sterling "TrapKing" Davis: Proving Compassion is Cool

Meet meowfest Virtual’s newest headliner: Sterling "TrapKing" Davis (@the_original_trapking!) You may know Sterling as the “Trap, Neuter, Return” King of Atlanta, or purrhaps through his nonprofit, TrapKing Humane Solutions, which aims to prevent overpopulation and spreading of disease in feral cat colonies through community outreach and education.

A musician and former military member who has traveled the world, Sterling’s passion for cats began at a young age, when he was the only cat lover in his neighborhood. While taking a break from his music career, he applied for a job cleaning litter boxes at a local animal shelter. Eventually he was promoted to an outreach position, leading him to give up performing to pursue his passion for feline welfare.

Not only does TrapKing Humane Solutions bring TNR services and education to communities who otherwise lack access, but Sterling has made it his mission to challenge stereotypes surrounding men who love cats, and to “bridge the gap in communication between black communities and predominantly white animal welfare organizations.” Sterling is currently raising funds for an RV, so TrapKing can directly assist communities across the country.

Sterling has been featured as a speaker at cat events around the US, but this will be his first time joining the (fe)line-up for meowfest, hosting a live Q&A session on compassion fatigue among rescue workers and activists. “I want to focus a lot on unity, working together, and staying positive,” he says. “[Compassion fatigue] is a big thing in rescue but I think with all that has been going on this year, we need positive energy...overall I want to stress us as people coming together for the animals we rescue and for one another.”

Sterling’s live Q&A is FREE with the purchase of a meowfest Virtual General Admission ticket. You can also meet him through 3-minute Zoom chats (limited spots available, General Admission ticket and additional ticket required).