
Protected species: wildcats
The Scottish wildcat, a European protected species, is the only native member of the cat family still wild in Britain.
The Scottish wildcat, a European protected species, is the only native member of the cat family still wild in Britain.
There is no change to the protection of European protected species as a result of EU Exit.
The wildcat is a European protected species and is fully protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended).
You can see our summary of offences in relation to this protected species below. For the definitive list of offences, you should consult the actual legislation.
Discover more about the Scottish wildcat.
It is an offence to deliberately or recklessly:
It is also an offence to:
Licensing allows named individuals to carry out actions that could otherwise constitute an offence. If you’re planning any activities that could affect wildcats or the places they use, you must make sure you stay within the law.
Find out about wildcats and licensing.
Learn more about licensing.
The reliable identification of wildcats (Felis silvestris) is necessary to enable the protection of the species and to ensure land managers, animal welfare organisations, conservation practitioners and others operate within the law. Wildcats are protected in a number of ways, as described above.
However, feral domestic cats (Felis catus) are an invasive non-native species. Therefore, releasing a feral domestic cat requires a licence, irrespective of whether it is neutered or not. Land managers are allowed to use appropriate lethal methods to control feral domestic cats.
Hybridisation between wildcats and domestic cats presents identification challenges. We have therefore worked with our partners to produce a pragmatic, practical approach to define wildcats when providing advice and making licensing decisions.
Protected species known to occur naturally in Scotland and their protection
Protected Species Advice for Developers: Wildcat
Read our latest news release - Historic milestone reached as critically endangered wildcats released into the Cairngorms National Park (15 June 2023)
If you already have a licence number, include it in the subject line of your email, or have it to hand when you call.