Third litter of wildcat kittens expected at a Sutherland wilderness reserve
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Alladale Wilderness Reserve is hoping it will shortly put out the welcome mat for a third litter in as many years of near pure bred wildcat kittens.
The reserve, located near Ardgay and owned by Paul Lister, runs a captive wildcat breeding programme in partnership with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
It is estimated that there are fewer than 400 wildcats left – making it one of the rarest feline species in the world.
Habitat destruction, human persecution and interbreeding with domestic cats has decimated the population.
A wildcat enclosure has been built at Alladale Reserve which was initially home to two female and two male wildcats.
Two kittens were born in June 2018 and another three kittens last year.
Reserve manager Innes MacNeill and ranger Ryan Munro are responsible for the wildcats’ welfare – visitors are not allowed near the enclosure.
Mr MacNeill has previously said: “The first two months are critical for the kittens’ survival, and therefore they are left undisturbed with their mother, taking their first steps outside and exploring their enclosure.”
The kittens will be relocated to other facilities that are part of the Captive Breeding Programme.
Wildcats have been dubbed “Highland tigers” for their feisty and aggresive nature.
However, in reality they are deeply fearful of mankind and will do anything they can to avoid humans.
