Scottish Wildcat

at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens

Quick Facts

Latin Name: Felis silvestris grampia
Diet: Carnivore
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Size: 44–65 cm body; 22–32 cm tail

Weight: 3 – 7 kg
Habitat: Forests and moorlands
Range: Scotland
Conservation Status (IUCN): Critically Endangered

The IUCN Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity.

About Our Scottish Wildcat

The Scottish wildcat is one of the UK’s rarest and most endangered mammals. Once found throughout the country, it now clings to survival in the remote Highlands. A long history of habitat loss, hunting, and interbreeding with domestic cats has pushed this native predator—often nicknamed the Highland Tiger—to the edge of extinction. Without urgent help, the wildcat could vanish from Britain entirely.

Zoos and private collections, including Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, now play a vital role in bringing this species back. Around 80 Scottish wildcats are currently in captivity, and each one could be part of the solution. In October, all of these animals underwent genetic testing. The results are being used to build a molecular stud book—similar to the one used for giant pandas—which will guide future breeding efforts.

This stud book will help identify the most genetically valuable animals and pair them carefully to maintain diversity. These cats, combined with wild genes through artificial insemination or managed reintroduction, could form the foundation of a healthy, self-sustaining population ready for release back into the wild.

Help Protect Scottish Wildcat - Adopt Today!

You can support the care of this incredible animal by adopting one today. Animal adoptions at Thrigby Hall help fund essential food, care, and conservation efforts. Adoptions make a thoughtful gift and are a great way to support endangered species.

Adoptions