Current threats to the European wildcat, Felis silvestris, in Scotland

The European wildcat, Felis silvestris, faces a number of threats to its population in Scotland and continental Europe. Population minimums probably occurred in Europe at the beginning of the 20th century. Several populations have recovered since, due to some restoration of preferred habitat and a r...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Ambio 1994-07, Vol.23 (4-5), p.243-245
Main Authors: McOrist, S. (Edinburgh Univ. (United Kingdom). Dept. of Veterinary Pathology), Kitchener, A.C
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
ANIMAL SALVAJE
ANIMAL SAUVAGE
Cats
Depopulation
ECOSSE
ENDANGERED SPECIES
ESCOCIA
ESPECE EN DANGER
ESPECIES EN PELIGRO DE EXTINCION
FELIDAE
Felis Silvestris
Forest habitats
Genetic hybridization
Habitat conservation
Hybridity
Liver
Mammals
Persecution
SCOTLAND
Viral diseases
WILD ANIMALS
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Summary:The European wildcat, Felis silvestris, faces a number of threats to its population in Scotland and continental Europe. Population minimums probably occurred in Europe at the beginning of the 20th century. Several populations have recovered since, due to some restoration of preferred habitat and a reduction in persecution. Our study of European wildcats in Scotland found that direct killing because of alleged attacks on gamebirds and livestock still occurred. Accidental killing by dogs, snares or poison baits is probably still common. Viral diseases, such as feline leukaemia have recently been identified. Low levels of dieldrin were detected in two wildcats, but few other toxic agrochemicals were found. A major threat to European wildcats is the loss of speciation due to hybridization with domestic cats. Many introgressive hybrids are now reported. These can be readily detected by skull measurements and coat markings. Major reintroduction programs are probably not necessary to "save" the wildcat, but local education of hunters, reductions in feral domestic cats and instigation of wildlife management procedures would greatly enhance the outlook for the species.
ISSN:0044-7447
1654-7209