Caithness set to become haven for wildcats
PLANS have been announced to create a wildcat sanctuary in Caithness.
Scottish wildcats are threatened by cross-mating with domestic cats, which could water down their gene pool until only mixed-species hybrids remain.
The Wildcat Haven project is keen to avoid that.
Its team is to survey the county for wildcats and provide free neutering of local domestic cats. Their work will begin in February.
The project aims to work closely with local pet owners, crofters, farmers, animal welfare groups and landowners by providing free neutering clinics for pet owners so that cross-breeding might be avoided.
Wildcat Haven has already created a sanctuary for Scottish wildcats, covering 800 square miles, in Lochaber.
Project director Emily O’Donoghue said: “As one of the wildest places in Scotland, we strongly believe that Caithness can become a real stronghold for the last remaining Scottish wildcats.
“There have always been extremely promising sightings reported in Caithness and Sutherland, but no-one has ever properly surveyed it or worked there, and we realised that the only chance any wildcats in the area had was for us to try and replicate the success we’ve had in Lochaber.”
Wildcat Haven will be offering free neutering and microchipping for domestic cats. Anyone who needs the service is asked to email admin@wildcathaven.co.uk