RZSS Highland Wildlife Park is pleased to welcome three young Scottish Wildcat kittens. The three young kittens were born at the end of April, but spent the first couple of months safely tucked away in their den with their mother Betidh.
RZSS Scottish Wildcat kitten by Alex Riddell/RZSS
Although some similarities with domestic tabby cats exist, the two species are not to be confused. The Scottish wildcat is an incredibly rare and elusive creature, thought to be critically endangered it is clear there is an immediate need for effective conservation measures across the whole of Scotland. All of the different wildcat species across the world are endangered for similar reasons, however the Scottish wildcat is one of the rarest cats in the world and is probably the nearest to extinction.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, along with more than 20 other organisations, is involved in the Scottish Wildcat Action which represents the best chance the wildcat has of surviving long term.
RZSS Scottish Wildcat kitten by Alex Riddell/RZSS
David Barclay, RZSS Cat Conservation Project Officer commented, ‘Without Scottish Wildcat Action the future of the Scottish Wildcat is bleak. The team is working hard all over Scotland to ensure measures are put in place to reduce threats, raise awareness and protect the remaining wild population.’
RZSS Scottish Wildcat kitten by Alex Riddell/RZSS