Scottish Wildcat Species Report

LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT

Felis silvestris grampia The Scottish Wildcat

HAYLEY HUGHES STUDENT NO: 090163917 SHEFFIELD UNIVERSITY

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

ABSTRACT The Felis silvestris grampia is the last remaining indigenous felid in Britain. Due to the Wildcats wide range, it has been rated as ‘Least Concern’ by the IUCN. However in the UK, the species is highly threatened by extinction and now restricted to North Scotland; hence its common name, the ‘Scottish Wildcat’. This report is an introduction to taxonomic status, distribution, morphology, habitat requirements, behaviour and threats of the Scottish Wildcat. This report deems habitat management and effective population monitoring, as key tools critical in the conservation of this species.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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1 INTRODUCTION - Wildcats

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2 HISTORY OF THE WILDCAT IN THE UK - Rise of the Wildcat - Fall of the Wildcat

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3 DISTRIBUTION

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4 TAXONOMIC STATUS

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5 MORPHOLOGY - Distinguishing features - Scientific methods of identification

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6 HABITAT

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7 BEHAVIOUR - Diet and hunting behaviour - Social behaviour and organisation - Breeding behaviour - Wildcat annual lifecycle

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8 THREATS

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9 HABITAT MANAGEMENT

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10 CONCLUSION

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11 REFERENCES

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12 LIST OF FIGURES

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

INTRODUCTION Wildcats The wildcat (Felis silvestris) is a small cat found throughout most of Africa, Europe, Southwest and Central Asia, India, China and Mongolia. There are five main sub-species of wildcat (although this is a topic of common debate); a current list of subspecies names and current distribution can be seen in Figure 1. Domestic cats also evolved from the Wildcat and are sometimes referred to as their own subspecies - Felis silvestris catus.

Due to the Wildcats wide range it is classed as ‘Least Concern’ by the IUCN (2012); however threats have occurred throughout the entirety of the species range, and some subspecies have been affected more than others. This report is concerned with a descendent of the sub-species Felis silvestris silvestris (the European cat); Felis silvestris grampia , commonly known as the ‘Scottish Wildcat’. The Scottish Wildcat is the last remaining indigenous felid in Britain (Macdonald et al, 2010).

Figure 1: Sub-species of Felis silvestris (Current distribution and Scientific Latin Name)

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

HISTORY OF THE WILDCAT IN THE UK Rise of the Wildcat Felis silvestris was formerly widespread in the UK and throughout the forested regions of Central Europe, where it continues to retain some of its geographical range (Figure 2).

7000-9000 years ago at the end of the last ice age glaciations; the English Channel formed and isolated a group of European Wildcats in the British Isles (Yalden, 1991). Over time they developed unique characteristics in response to the habitat and species native to the UK. Felis silvestris evolved into a larger and more heavily camouflaged subspecies; Felis silvestris grampia (Macdonald et al, 2004).

Fall of the Wildcat The initial decline of F.s grampia has been partially attributed to habitat loss of forested areas, direct killing through hunting for its fur and persecution as a predator (Kitchener,1995 ; Macdonald et al, 2004). Felis silvestris grampia had disappeared from Southern Scotland, England and Wales by the mid 19th century (Taylor, 1946; Langley and Yalden, 1977).

Development of sporting estates in Scotland from the mid-19th century and increased persecution, lead to a further sever decline in population (Tapper, 1992). Although human persecution was a significant cause of past declines, it is thought to have reduced significantly after WW1 and WW2 (Hubbard et al, 1992). Most probably because less people own livestock and Wildcats are no longer deemed as competitors for food.

Figure 2: Current and previous distribution of Felis silvestris silvestris in Europe.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

DISTRIBUTION A survey in the 1980’s indicated the Scottish Wildcat (F.s grampia) had recovered the majority of its former range north of the Central Belt of Scotland (Easterbee,1991). A more recent study in the 1990’s suggested Wildcats were limited to the north-east of Scotland (Balharry and Daniels, 1998). Published population estimates in 1995 (Harris et al), indicated that there may have been between 1000-4000 Scottish Wildcats based on Wildcat sightings.

Studies based on ‘naked eye’ sightings are highly questionable due to uncertainties of identification between feral domestic, hybrids and ‘true’ Wildcats. The stealthy and solitary behaviour of the Wildcat also makes them very difficult to spot – for most it is a rare sight to see one. Current distribution is widely debated and highly speculated. A more recent study (Macdonald et al, 2004) based on extrapolation of a subsample of museum skins, suggested that the number of individuals with classical Wildcat pelage may be as low as 400. The most recent study (Figure 3) published in 2009 (Kilshaw, 2011), shows that wildcat sightings were more common in the North-East; this is consistent with the findings of Balharry and Daniels (1998), however questionable due to method.

Figure 3: Records of probable wildcat sightings from 2006–2008 survey.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

TAXONOMIC STATUS Britain as a nation lost the Wolf in 1743, (Kitchener and Bonsall, 1999) and the Bear c. 10002000 years ago. The Scottish Wildcat (F.s grampia) survives to remain an icon of native British wilderness, however it is critically endangered. It is the last large endemic predatory mammal in the UK and its taxonomic status reflects this. Listed in Schedules 5 and 6 of Britain’s Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Macdonald and Tattersall, 2001); this is the highest status of legislation protecting wild mammals in the UK. The Wildcat is listed as a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (JNCC, 2010). Scottish Natural Heritage classed the species highly in there ‘5 year Species Action Framework’ as Criteria 1a. Scottish wildcat meet both of the requirements for this criteria; ‘native species that are critically endangered in Scotland (or elsewhere), or for which Scotland is a strong hold (including endemic species only found there) and there is a continuing threat to the species in the immediate future’ (SNH, 2011). The Scottish Wildcat is also recognised in Annex IVa of the Habitats Directive (1992) as a European Protected Species in the Conservation Regulations 1994 (Natural England, 2008). It is clear from population statistics, distribution and taxonomic status; that Felis silvestris grampia is severely threatened.

MORPHOLOGY The Scottish Wildcat has longer legs, a larger head, a more muscular and robust appearance than the average domestic cat. F.s grampia has greyish brown to yellowish brown fur with dark brownish black stripes (Figure 4) with a thick and bushy, blunt-ended tail. Males can have a total length (including their tail) of 823-981mm and weight 3.77 – 7.26kg.

Females are smaller reaching 730-895mm length and weigh around 2.35 – 4.68kg (Kilshaw, 2011). The Scottish Wildcat has a strong jaw, excellent sight, rotatable hearing and sharp retractable claws. The morphology of this Wildcat has made it perfectly suited to being a stealthy predator in the forested regions of Scotland. It can kills its prey with one bite.

Figure 4: Photo of a Scottish Wildcat (Kilshaw, 2011)

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

Distinguishing features The Scottish Wildcat is larger than a domestic cat however is very similar in appearance to a striped tabby cat; for this reason it can be very difficult to distinguish between the two.

More recently seven key pelage characteristics have been identified that suggest consistent differences in the appearance between wildcats and domestic cats. These seven key characteristics can be seen in Figure 5, and are extremely useful for identification of the wildcat in the wild.

Hybrids vary in appearance and some may be more similar to wildcat characteristics than others. Domestic cats and hybrids can also have some white patches in their coat, such as white paws or white patches; the Scottish Wildcat has no white markings.

Figure 5: Morphological pelage characteristics of Scottish Wildcat and the Domestic cat

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

Scientific methods of identification Assessing five skull characteristics is one of the most efficient methods traditionally used to characterise between domestic and wildcats (Pocock, 1951; Kitchener, 1995); these skull parameters are visually presented in Figure 6. Each skull parameter was given a score with a Wildcat having a score of 15 and a domestic cat with 5 (Yamaguchi et al, 2004). Hybrids have also been accounted for in this study with a score rating anywhere in between 5 and 15. This is a very useful and effective tool however due to its high resources could never be used extensively. Genetic identification is possible, however this is also not viable for wider use (Daniels et al, 2001).

Another method which is currently being trialled in Cairngorms National Park (Northeast Scotland), is camera trapping (Scottish Natural Heritage, 2011). This method uses digital cameras attached to motion sensors and temperature detectors, to attempt to capture photographs of wild living cats. The cats are then identified by their pelage markings. Bait has been found to increase capture rates. The study was highly successful as no feral cats caught on camera; only hybrids and ‘pure’ wildcats.

Correct identification of a species and effective monitoring of a population is critically important to triggering, implementing and assessing a conservation strategy.

Habitat management of a site where Scottish Wildcats live should have a rigorous monitoring strategy, for estimating population densities and demographic trends.

Figure 6: Cranial morphology variables for distinguishing between Scottish Wildcat, Domestic cats and hybrids.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

HABITAT Scottish wildcats live in habitats which satisfy two main requirements; food and shelter. It avoids heavily urbanized areas, areas of intense agriculture and exposed coasts. Woodlands and areas of dense gorse or juniper thickets provide shelter and resting places (especially in adverse weather periods). Young forest plantations are particularly important to the Wildcat as they are protected from grazing and support a high diversity and abundance of small mammal prey (Kilshaw, 2011).

Wildcats also require open patches of habitat for hunting; such as pastures, moorland or riparian areas. When moving around these territories they avoid moving in the open areas and use the woodland edge, scrub or stream edges for cover. Preferences of open pasture differ regionally dependent on the availability of prey. In the East of Scotland the Wildcat prefers margins of moorland, pasturelands and woodlands however in the West of Scotland they prefer the uplands with rough grazing moorlands and limited pastures. This is due to the low rabbit densities found in the West; and the wildcats need to eat voles and mice which are frequently found in the rough pasture, scrub and woodland edges.

The Scottish wildcat will venture to an altitude of up to 800 metres; but it is not generally found higher than 650 metres. Weather can cause the Wildcats to move habitat temporarily. Heavy snow makes it difficult for F.s grampia to move around and hunt. If there is deep snow on the ground for long periods; Wildcats will move to the forested areas or lower altitudes where there is typically less snow cover (Kilshaw, 2011).

Figure 7: Ancient pine woodland with an excellent understory for Scottish Wildcats of Heather and Blaeberry in Rothiemurchus Forest, Cairngorms National Park.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

BEHAVIOUR Diet and hunting behaviour Wildcats are carnivores, with a morphology perfectly evolved to hunting. The Scottish Wildcat has forward facing eyes with binocular vision and depth perception for hunting at night. They also have retractable claws, sharp teeth and strong jaw muscles to kill their prey.

When hunting, the Wildcat patrols forests, glades, fields, and treetops in pursue of prey.

Sight and hearing are the Wildcats primary senses (sense of smell is comparatively weak); the Wildcat has excellent night vision and hearing that can individually rotate up to 180° (Kilshaw, 2011). Like most of the cat family they also have long sensitive whiskers, which enable them to detect air changes and help them to hunt at night.

The diet of a Scottish Wildcat varies greatly depending on their local habitat and abundance of prey. The preferred diet is the European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), however they also eat small mammals such as hamsters, brown rats, dormice, water voles, voles, wood mice, birds, reptiles and invertebrates. Rabbits can form up to 70% of the Wildcat diet in Eastern Scotland; however small mammals can form the majority (49%) of their diet in areas where there are fewer rabbits (Harris and Yalden, 2008). On occasion small carnivores (martens, polecats, stoats, and weasels) are preyed upon, as well as the fawns of red deer, roe deer, and chamois.

Figure 8: Photo of Scottish Wildcat with its captured prey in a tree

Social behaviour and organization Wildcats are generally solitary, living alone for most of the year except mating, or when females raise their young. They are generally considered to be nocturnal or crepuscular (active at dusk and dawn); especially when more people live in the area. Wildcats often claim dens in rock cairns, large logging piles and among ancient tree roots. They have been

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat known to use empty rabbit warrens and abandoned shelters from Heron nests, abandoned foxes or badger nests in Europe (Kilshaw, 2011).

They have a dispersed social system where the home range of one male overlaps with one or more female home ranges (Kilshaw, 2011). In areas where a lot of food is available, the home ranges overlap to a greater extent than in areas where food is less abundant. For example in Cairngorms National Park (where rabbits are plentiful), the home range is between 0.3 and 6km. Whereas in the west coast of Scotland; their territories can range from 8 to 18km sq because rabbits are scarce and the Wildcats have to rely on eating small rodents.

Within its territory the Wildcat leaves scent marks in different sites. Territorial markings consist of urinating on trees, vegetation, rocks and depositing faeces in inconspicuous places (Harris and Yalden, 2008). Scent marking increases during estrus, when the cats preanal glands enlarge, and secrete strong smelling substances ie. Trimethylamine (Heptner et al, 1992).

Breeding behaviour The wildcat has two estrus periods; one in December-February and another in May-July (Heptner et al, 1992). Estrus lasts 5-9 days, with a gestation period lasting 60-68 days (Kilshaw, 2011). Kittens usually appear in April- May, with some being born from MarchAugust. Average litter sizes range from 1-7 (on average 3-4). Kittens are born blind and helpless with a fuzzy coat. At birth they weigh between 65-163g; however kittens born under 90g will rarely survive. Their eyes open after 9-12 days and incisors erupt after 14-30 days. The kittens are born with pink paw pads which blacken after 3 months and blue eyes that turn amber after 5 months; as the kitten reaches independence.

Figure 9: Photo of Scottish Wildcat kitten

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat

Wildcat annual life cycle Wildcat kittens begin to walk at 16-20 days and emerge from the protection of the den 4-5 weeks old. The Wildcats reach independence between the ages of 5-6 months when they start exploring for potential territories. Male Wildcats reach sexual maturity (9-10 months) sooner than the females, at 12 months (Kilshaw, 2011). Male kittens typically leave the mothers territory and disperse before their 1st Winter; whereas the females are more likely to stay in their natal territory for the 1st Winter before dispersing. Young Wildcats have high mortality within the first weeks of leaving the natal territory, as many succumb to road accidents or predation from foxes or eagles. Kilshaw (2011) created an annual life cycle summary of the Scottish Wildcat; this can be seen in Figure 10.

The species maximum life span is 21 years, however in the wild they are lucky to live up to 13-14 yrs (Harris and Yalden, 2008). More recent studies have shown that only 7% of Scottish Wildcats live longer than 6 years in the wild (Kilshaw, 2011); females average a maximum of 10 years, whereas males avg. 8 years.

Figure 10: Wildcat annual life cycle (Kilshaw, 2011)

THREATS There are a number of threats to Felis silvestris grampia. The largest threat to the species is hybridization with domestic cats. Due to their close genetic relationship, interbreeding has been extensive. Researchers fear the introgression between the two will at worst result in cryptic extinction of the species (Kitchener, 1995; Beaumont et al, 2001); at best severe introgression and near extinction of ‘pure’ wildcat populations (Suminski, 1962).

Hybridization not only threatens the species genetically, but also misidentification, which has been found to lead to a lot of difficulties. Difficulties in identification between ‘pure’ wildcats, feral domestic cats and hybrids can have implications on survey and population estimates (Macdonald et al, 2004). Daniels et al (1998) also found issues with the UK legal system; Scottish Wildcats are legally protected where as feral cats can be legally controlled.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat This leads us to the threat of persecution. It is unknown whether intentional persecution still occurs, however mistaken identity for a feral cat or fox is still a real threat.

As predators on grouse moors they are at risk of snares set legally for red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and are often shot through ‘lamping’ at night (when a light is shone to pick out the reflection from the eye) which is generally aimed at foxes and feral domestic cats.

Habitat loss and fragmentation has been found to be a serious threat to both past and present populations of F.s grampia (Stahl and Artois, 1994). The urbanised and industrialised central belt in Scotland, acts as a physical barrier to the southwards movements of the Scottish Wildcat; despite there being a large amount of suitable habitat in Southern Scotland (Easterbee et al, 1991). Scottish Wildcats are also at risk of mortality from road traffic accidents; particularly near on main roads through the highlands and on popular tourist routes.

Disease is also an issue which has been highly affecting F.s grampia. It has been found that wildcats suffer from a vulnerability to feline diseases transmitted by feral cats.

Studies in Scotland have shown the wildcat population is commonly infected with major viruses of the domestic cat (Daniels et al, 1998); such as feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline foamy virus (FFV) or feline calicivirus, (FCV) which can cause cat flu and affect the joints.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is readily transmitted among young cats via bodily fluids (during a fight or mating) and is nearly always fatal. Not only is FeLV detrimental to young cats, but evidence has shown that it also increases the mortality rates of the other wildcats (Fromant et al, 2000). Wildcats infected with both FeLV and FCV may also develop pheumonia. The Scottish Wildcat is also vulnerable to a host of parasites; including the deer tick (Ixodes ricinus), ear mite (Otodectes cynotis) and cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). Due to F.s grampia’s all- meat diet; the wildcat is highly susceptible to worms; ie. Dog or cucumber tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum). Occasionally the Wildcat will eat grass to help dislodge them from its gut an provide folic acid for its body (Kilshaw, 2011) It is clear the modern threats that the Scottish Wildcat faces are complex, mostly anthropogenic and somewhat interlinked. Some can be counteracted, such as persecution, habitat loss and disease; however some threats are harder to protect from, such as hybridization and fragmentation.

HABITAT MANAGEMENT In order to manage a habitat which is home to a population of Scottish Wildcat; there are a number of considerations to be made. Current conservation strategies may help to remove feral cats and feline diseases from the area. One of the largest projects of this type is called ‘Wildcat Haven’, which aims to create a 7000sq mile region entirely free from feral cats and feline diseases (Scottish Wildcat Association, 2010). ‘Cats Protection’ and ‘ SSPCA’ also neuter, inoculate and find new homes for feral cats; they also run subsidised programmes for low income families with domestic cats. These strategies can help reduce the risk of hybridization and feline viruses. To protect against accidental human persecution; snares and shooting should be banned.

The most important tool in any conservation project is the monitoring and assessment of a species population size, density, distribution. The method of camera trapping is the one which seems to have the most promise for extensive and efficient use.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat Heavy grazing by deer, sheep and cattle can also have an impact on the vegetation that encourages the wildcat’s prey species. Thus, grazing should be banned, deforestation banned, and the habitat managed in a way which boosts the prey species population.

Creation of large log piles or rock dens for females in the mating season could also be an option for increasing fecundity and survival of young. Fragmentation should also be considered and strategies to link the site with another Scottish Wildcat stronghold considered.

CONCLUSION Studies have revealed the urgency of restorative action, and the preciousness of the Scottish Wildcat’s situation. This species illustrates fundamental questions in science and ideology of species conservation; such as definitions of species, consequences of their legal classifications, the nature and consequences of introgression and ethics regarding the nature of extinction. Captive breeding has a large role to play in guarantee the survival of ‘pure’ wildcats, however without effective habitat management and restoration of fragmented networks; the Scottish Wildcat will find its survival critically threatened.

REFERENCES Balharry D., Daniels M.J., (1998). Wild living cats in Scotland. Scottish Natural Heritage Research, Survey and Monitoring Report 23 Beaumont M, Barratt EM, Gottelli D, Kitchener AC, Daniels MJ, et al. (2001). Genetic diversity and introgression in the Scottish wildcat. Mol Ecol. 10:319–336 Daniels, M.J., Balharry, D., Hirst, D., Aspinall, R.J. & Kitchener, A.C. (1998) Morphological and pelage characteristics of wild living cats in Scotland: Implications for defining the 'wildcat'. Journal of Zoology, 244: 231-247.

Easterbee, N. (1991). The wildcat Felis silvestris. In The handbook ofBritish mammals: 431–437. 3rd edn.

Corbett, G. B. & Harris, S.(eds). Oxford: Blackwell Scientific Publications Easterbee, N., Hepburn, L.V. & Jefferies, D.J. 1991. Survey of the status and distribution of the wildcat in Scotland, 1983-1987. Nature Conservancy Council for Scotland: Edinburgh Fromont E, Sager A, Léger F, Bourguemeister F, Jouquelet E, Stahl P, Pontier D, Artois M. Prevalence and pathogenicity of retroviruses in wildcats in France. Veterinary Record. 2000;146:317–319.

(JNCC) Joint Nature Conservation Committee. (2010). UK Priority Species data collation Felis silvestris version 2 updated on 15/12/2010. Available: http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/_speciespages/2272.pdf. Last accessed 28th May 2012.

Harris, S., Morris, P., Wray, S. and Yalden, D. 1995. A review of British Mammals: population estimates and conservation status of British mammals other than cetaceans. JNCC, Peterborough.

Harris, S; Yalden, D (2008). Mammals of the British Isles. Mammal Society; 4th Revised edition edition.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat Heptner, V. G.; Sludskii, A. A. (1992). Mammals of the Soviet Union: Carnivora (hyaenas and cats), Volume 2.

Smithsonian Institution Libraries and National Science Foundation.

Hubbard, A. L., McOrist, S., Jones, T. W., Boids. R., Scott, R. & Easterbee, N. (1992). Is the survival of European wildcats Felis silvestris in Britain threatened by interbreeding with domestic cats? Biol. Conserv. 61: 203–208.

IUCN. (2012). Felis silvestris. Available: http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/8543/0. Last accessed 26th May 2012.

Kitchener AC. (1995). The wildcats. London: The Mammal Society Kitchener, A.C. and Bonsall, C. 1997. AMS radiocarbon dates for some extinct Scottish mammals Kilshaw, K (2011). Scottish Wilcats: Naturally Scottish. SNH publishing.

Langley, P.J.W. & Yalden, D.W. (1977). The decline of the rarer carnivores in Great Britain during the nineteenth century. Mammal Review, 18: 741-760.

Macdonald, D. W., Daniels, M. J., Driscoll, C., Kitchener, A. &Yamaguchi, N. (2004). The Scottish wildcat: Analyses for conservation and an action plan. Oxford: Wildlife Conservation Research Unit Macdonald, D.W. and Tattersall, F.T. (2001). Britain's Mammals: The Challenge for Conservation. Mammals Trust UK/WildCru. Macdonald DW, Yamaguchi N, Kitchener AC, Daniels M, Driscoll C.2010. Reversing cryptic extinction: the history, present and future ofthe Scottish Wildcat. In: Macdonald DW, Loveridge AJ, editors. Biology and conservation of wild felids. Oxford: Oxford University Press Natural England. (2008). Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994 (as amended) EUROPEAN PROTECTED SPECIES OF ANIMALS. Available: http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/images/europeanprotectedspecies_tcm6-10703.pdf. Last accessed 26th May 2012.

Pocock RI. (1951). Catalogue of the genus Felis. London: British Museum Scottish Natural Heritage. (2011). SNH Commissioned Report 479: The use of camera trapping as a method to survey for the Scottish wildcat. Available: http://www.snh.gov.uk/publications-data-andresearch/publications/search-the-catalogue/publication-detail/?id=1856. Last accessed 26th May 2012.

Scottish Wildcat Association. (2010). The Scottish Wildcat (Felis silvestris grampia). Available: http://www.scottishwildcats.co.uk/conservation.html. Last accessed 26th May 2012.

Stahl P, Artois M. Council of Europe Nature and Environment Series. vol. 69. Council of Europe Press; Strasbourg, France: 1994. Status and conservation of the wildcat (Felis silvestris) in Europe and around the Mediterranean rim. Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats Standing Committee. pp. 1–76.

Suminski, P. (1962). Les caracteres de la forme pure du chat sauvage `Felis silvestris Schreber. Arch. Sci. 15: 277–296.

Tapper, S. (1992). Game Heritage. The Game Conservancy, Fordingbridge Taylor, W.C. (1946). The Wild Cat (Felis silvestris) in Great Britain. The Journal of Animal Ecology, 15 (2): 130133.

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LSC 210 SPECIES REPORT – Felis silvestris grampia – The Scottish Wildcat Yamaguchi N, Driscoll CA, Kitchener AC, Ward JM, Macdonald DW . (2004). Craniological differentiation between European wildcats (Felis silvestris silvestris), African wildcats (F. s. lybica) and Asian wildcats (F. s. ornata): implications for their evolution and conser. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society. 83 ( ), p47-63.

Yalden, D.W. (1999). The History of British Mammals. Poyser, London.

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Sub-species of Felis silvestris (Current distribution and Scientific Latin Name) Figure 2: Current and previous distribution of Felis silvestris silvestris in Europe.

Figure 3: Records of probable wildcat sightings from 2006–2008 survey.

Figure 4: Photo of a Scottish Wildcat (Kilshaw, 2011) Figure 5: Morphological pelage characteristics of Scottish Wildcat and the Domestic cat Figure 6: Cranial morphology variables for distinguishing between Scottish Wildcat, Domestic cats and hybrids.

Figure 7: Ancient pine woodland with an excellent understory for Scottish Wildcats of Heather and Blaeberry in Rothiemurchus Forest, Cairngorms National Park.

Figure 8: Photo of Scottish Wildcat with its captured prey in a tree Figure 9: Photo of Scottish Wildcat kitten.

Figure 10: Wildcat annual life cycle (Kilshaw, 2011)

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