European wildcat  (Felis silvestris grampia)

Like all small cats, wildcats are solitary and maintain territories, except when they are mating or with kittens (6). In Scotland, although generally active throughout the 24-hour period, most activity occurs between 4 pm and 2 am (6); individuals tend to rest during the day in scrub or young plantations. As with many mammals, in areas undisturbed by humans, wildcats become more active during the day (7). They are adept predators, feeding mainly on rodents, rabbits, hares and to a lesser extent birds (7). They are also known to scavenge rather than hunt, and may stockpile food, particularly during the winter months (7).

In Scotland, mating typically occurs in March (6) and a single litter is produced each year, unless the first litter is lost (6). Gestation takes up to 68 days, after which a litter of between 1 and 8 kittens are produced (6) in a den (5). The kittens are born with a full coat; their bright blue eyes open at around 10 days, and become golden yellow at around 5 months of age (5), around the time when the kittens become independent. Sexual maturity is reached at 10-12 months in females and 9-10 months in males. The male may bring food to the den, and may help to rear the kittens, although females have been known to drive males away aggressively when they have kittens (5). The female may help the kittens to develop hunting skills by waving her tail when at rest, causing the kittens to pounce on it (5). Wildcats are known to live to a maximum of 11 years in Scotland (6).