WILDCAT fans have launched a new campaign - #GenerationWildcat - to encourage people to help save the species.
Scottish Wildcat Action (SWA) wants outdoor types, farmers and gamekeepers to join their fight to bring the “Highland Tiger” back from the brink of extinction.
The group says the species is the UK’s most endangered carnivore and SWA project manager Dr Roo Campbell says now is the time to save the Scottish wildcat: “We are almost certainly the last generation who has a realistic chance of saving this iconic species from extinction in Scotland.
“Wildcats here face three key threats: hybridisation with feral domestic cats, disease and accidental killing.
“Through our #GenerationWildcat campaign we want to reach out to the people who can help tackle these threats by taking action, including reporting sightings of wildcats and un-neutered feral cats.”
“We will only regret tomorrow what we don’t do today, so I would encourage as many people as possible to join in this campaign. It is vital that we all work together and become part of the fight to save our Highland Tiger.”
A sustained marketing campaign, including local events, will be delivered throughout the project’s five Wildcat Priority Areas (Northern Strathspey, Angus Glens, Strathpeffer, Morvern and Strathbogie).
The campaign is aimed at different audiences, but has a common goal, saving the Scottish wildcat from extinction.
Campbell added: “We are already working closely with schools in our priority areas because they are key players in #GenerationWildcat. They represent the group who can carry our work forward into the future, educate the next generation and maintain an environment in which wildcats can continue to thrive.”
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