Wildcats: licences for possession
NatureScot can issue licences to permit the legal possession of wildcats for scientific, research or educational purposes.
All wildcats – living and dead – are protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994.
You must have a licence to legally possess a dead wildcat, or part of a dead wildcat, that was collected since June 1994.
NatureScot can issue licences for the possession of wildcats for scientific, research or educational purposes. For a licence to be issued, you must be able to clearly show the scientific or educational purpose.
Such a licence is used to permit, for example:
- scientists to use wildcat samples for research
- museums, schools or ranger services to display dead wildcats for educational purposes
How to apply
To apply for a licence to possess a dead wildcat, email [email protected].
You should include:
- your name, address and telephone number
- the number and nature (whole or part) of individual specimens
- the purpose of possession
- the date and location where specimens were found
- where specimens will be kept
Licence changes and renewals
You should get in touch if you wish to amend a licence. But check your licence conditions first: you may be able to appoint agents and assistants without having to get them named on your licence.
Find out about adding persons to a licence.
You must also remember to contact us to renew your licence. Licences aren’t renewed automatically.
Contact
If you already have a licence number, include it in the subject line of your email, or have it to hand when you call.
Licensing Team
Telephone: 01463 725 364
Email: [email protected]
Find out more
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