Species Action Framework
LATEST NEWS
SCOTTISH WILDCAT
19 February 2008
2008-2009 Scottish Wildcat Survey
A new Scottish Wildcat Survey has been launched. Scottish Natural
Heritage (SNH) is calling on visitors and workers in the outdoors to be
alert for any sightings of our most elusive predator, the Scottish
Wildcat (Felis silvestris). SNH believes people using the countryside
for work or leisure in 2008 can play a key role in helping the plight
of one of Scotland’s rarest and most secretive mammals.
In the last survey between 1983-87 the distribution of the wildcat
appeared to be focused on an area north of the central belt from the
North East across to Lochaber. Field research suggests there are
approximately 3,500 independent animals aged over five months across
Scotland. Studies of the animal's density suggested that Glen Tanar on
Deeside had up to 30 wildcats per 100 square kilometres whilst
Ardnamurchan had just 8 wildcats per 100 square kilometres.
For the new 2008-2009 Scottish Wildcat Survey we are encouraging public
participation to help chart the current health and number of the native
population across the country. Throughout 2008 SNH will be working to
build up a picture of the wildcat population distribution to assess its
current survival prospects as a distinct Scottish species.
The 2008-2009 Scottish Wildcat Survey is being coordinated on behalf of
SNH by Adrian Davis of Naiad Consultancy. Please send any records of
the wildcat for the survey through the website at
www.naiadecology.co.uk/wildcatsurv.html
Or phone Adrian Davis on 01350 727201, or write to, Naiad Environmental
Consultancy, Birnam Guest House, 4 Murthly Terrace, Birnam, Dunkeld,
PH8 0BG.
You can also download a copy of the Scottish Wildcat Survey leaflet by clicking here.
SNH Press Releases
19/02/2008
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is calling on visitors and workers in the outdoors to be alert for any sightings of our most elusive predator, the Scottish Wildcat (Felis silvestris). The organisation believes people using the countryside for work or leisure in 2008 can play a key role in helping the plight of one of Scotland's rarest and most secretive mammals.
To find out about other species on the Species Action List, click on the icons below, and follow the links.
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