wildcat

The wildcat, a shy and rare predator, is critically endangered and requires urgent conservation measures to ensure its survival. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the wildcat's biology and lifestyle and highlights the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

wildcat Products

Profile: wildcat

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Mammals (Mammalia)
    • Order: Carnivora
    • Family: Cats (Felidae)
    • Genus: Felis
    • Species: F. silvestris (wild cat)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 45-75 cm
    • Tail length: 25-35 cm
    • Weight: 2-5 kg
    • Special features: Medium-sized cat with a robust build, blunt tail, short ears, grey-brown fur with dark stripes and spots, whitish belly.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia
    • Habitat: Mainly forests, but also hedges, mountainous regions, and swampy areas.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Carnivore
    • Typical food: small mammals such as mice, rats, rabbits, birds, but also insects and occasionally fruits.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: Spring
    • Gestation period: Approx. 60-68 days
    • Litter size: 3-6 young per litter
    • Lifestyle: Solitary, nocturnal, excellent hunters, territorial behavior.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 12 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Critically endangered due to habitat loss, hybridization with domestic cats, and hunting.
    • Conservation measures: preservation and protection of habitats, targeted breeding and release programs, avoidance of hybridization.