Wildcats and gamebirds

Saving Wildcats currently works with 11 estates across the release site, who are signed up to receive WhatsApp, email or phone messages when collared wildcats are on their land through a mutually agreed communications strategy. We have been extremely grateful for the support and cooperation of many local gamekeepers and land managers in providing help with access, sightings and camera trap images. More information can be found here.

There have unfortunately been some confirmed instances of released wildcats entering pheasant pens and creating disturbance for pheasants. In May 2025, NatureScot produced a guidance note in relation to wildcats and gamebird operations, which covers this and other aspects of running a shoot in the presence of wildcats and other protected predators.

If a wildcat enters a pheasant pen, Saving Wildcats can (if requested):

• Monitor and share the data of any GPS collared wildcat
• Install camera traps to assist with monitoring the affected area
• Provide advice on how to carry out NatureScot stated passive methods to encourage a wildcat to move out of a pen
• Provide advice on pen amendments or improvements to reduce risk of ingression of predators 

If you believe you have been affected by wildcat predation and would be interested in participating in a trial of fencing or monitoring of disturbance, then please contact us on wildcats@rzss.org.uk

Specific advice and support for holders of domestic poultry can be found here.