One of the young wildcats born at Highland Wildlife Park.

Conservationists race to save the species
 
A trio of critically endangered Scottish wildcat kittens have been born at the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park in Scotland, offering a glimmer of hope for the species.

Scottish wildcats, also known as Highland tigers, are incredibly rare and elusive. They are thought to be one of the rarest cats in the world, facing extinction due to hybridisation with domestic and feral cats, as well as habitat loss and persecution.

In a bid to help save the species, a conservation breeding programme is being undertaken by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).

The new kittens were born at the park in April but spent their first two months of life tucked away in their den with mother Betidh. More recently, they have begun to wander outside and explore their territory.

Commenting on the new arrivals, David Barclay, RZSS cat conservation project officer, said "important genes from these new arrivals may one day be represented in released cats roaming the wilds of Scotland."

The efforts of RZSS form part of Scottish Wildcat Action - a collaboration of more than 20 organisations who are working to protect the remaining wild population, whilst reducing the threats facing the species. This includes extensive neutering of feral and hybrid cats to prevent further hybridisation.

Image ©Alex Riddell/RZSS