European wildcats (Felis silvestris), also known as woodcats, once thrived across mainland Britain, but their numbers plummeted during the 19th and early 20th centuries due to widespread persecution and the loss of natural habitats. They are a European Protected Species and have been identified as a national priority species by Defra.
Today, European wildcats survive only in northern Scotland, where an estimated 100 to 300 individuals remain, prompting urgent efforts to protect and restore this native species. At Forestry England, we're carrying out ecological and social feasibility studies, the results of which could potentially help species recovery.
What do European wildcats look like?
The wildcat is about the size of a large pet cat. Wildcats can look very similar to domestic tabby cats, but the main difference is that they are stockier, with a thick bushy tail. Their tails are marked with distinctive black bands and end with a blunt black tip.
Wildcat statistics
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years.
- Length (excluding tail): 45-80cm.
- Weight: 3-8 kg.
Wildcat habitat and diet
European wildcats are very shy, choosing quiet places like woodlands (hence their alternate name of 'woodcat') and thick undergrowth to rest and raise their young. They tend to avoid interacting with people and are mostly active at dawn, dusk and during the night.
Wildcats mostly hunt small mammals like rabbits, voles, and mice, but will also eat birds, insects, reptiles, frogs, and even dead animals when needed. Although they prefer to live in sheltered places, they will also hunt for food in open areas such as grasslands, riverbanks and scrub.
As one of our native predators, wildcats help keep ecosystems in balance. Sadly, they’re now the rarest mammal in Britain and are close to disappearing completely.
Why bring back European wildcats?
Having a wider mix of medium-sized predators, like wildcats, helps nature stay balanced and healthy. When we bring back species that have been lost, it strengthens the whole ecosystem.
This not only benefits the animals themselves, but also helps other wildlife - both those they hunt and those they live alongside.
The Kielder Forest Wildcat Project
We're currently working with a range of partners looking at the feasibility of reintroducing wildcats to Kielder Forest in Northumberland. Head to the Kielder Forest Wildcat Project page to find out more about how the project's progressing.
The South West Wildcat Project
The South West Wildcat Project is a collaborative initiative led by Devon Wildlife Trust, in partnership with us at Forestry England and Derek Gow Consultancy. The University of Exeter, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Cat Specialist Group and Wildwood Trust have provided expert advice to the project steering group.
A recent project report concluded that the reintroduction of the European wildcat to the south west of England is both feasible and may be viewed favourably by the public. While there are no immediate plans to release wildcats, project partners are committed to continuing work that will support a reintroduction in the future. The report’s full findings can be read on the project's website.
