Wildlife

Wild Wildcat Conservation Emergency in Scotland

The Scottish wildcat is functionally extinct in the wild. A breeding and reintroduction programme represents the last chance to restore this species to British landscapes.

Key Facts

Fewer than 300 pure wildcats may have remained in Scotland by 2019
Hybridisation with domestic cats has been the primary cause of genetic erosion
Wildcats were extinct in England, Wales and most of Scotland by the 1950s
Tayvallich in Scotland is the first reintroduction site for captive-bred wildcats

Welfare Considerations

Wildcat reintroduction welfare demands exceptional captive care standards, minimal human habituation, and rigorous soft-release protocols. Long-term monitoring is essential to assess welfare in the wild.

What You Can Do

Support Saving Wildcats - the breeding and reintroduction programme
Neuter and vaccinate domestic cats near wildcat reintroduction areas
Follow reintroduction news and share updates to build public support