The Scottish Wildcat - on the verge of extinction

[creagdhubh]

Alan,

I would like to say at the outset, "thank you" for posting this thread. The more people we can inform about the severity of the situation in Scotland regarding the Scottish Wildcat, the better. Saving the Scottish Wildcat from near extinction, as well as protecting the last remaining numbers of the species, is something that is very near and dear to both the Clan Macpherson Association and the Clan Chattan Confederation of Clans. Both organisations have been advocates for the protection of this elusive beast native to the Scottish Highlands. We have partnered up with superb environmental organisations in Scotland in furtherence of Scottish Wildcat conservation and protection. The Highland Wildlife Park in Kingussie plays a vital role in all of this as well. Through their tireless efforts, they have attempted to breed and reintroduce Scottish Wildcats into their natural environment, as well as rehabilitating injured wildcats.

In regards to the Scottish Wildcat taxidermy that can be seen at Cluny's home of Newton Castle in Blairgowrie, it is quite old, I assure you. Does that make the current situation any better in regards to the survival of the Scottish Wildcat, no. However; I would argue that the Chief of the Clan Macpherson, whose crest is that of a Scottish Wildcat (as well as being the totem and talisman (sacred animal) of the clan, and the crest of Macpherson Chieftains and Armigers), standing next to the 19th century taxidermy of the Scottish Wildcat is not inappropriate. Yes, unfortunately, many Scottish Wildcats were hunted and killed in the distant past, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries (the Victorians and Edwardians were notorious hunters of the Scottish Wildcat). Many of the pelts were made into full-mask sporrans, which is why you still see a handful of Macphersons, to include our Chief, wearing them to this day. However, these are very old sporrans that have been passed down through the generations by their ancestors, who had a much different attitude towards animal conservation. The wearing of them, nor the taxidermy models located at both Newton Castle and the Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore, does not reflect a total disregard towards the conservation and protection of this endangered species. Quite the opposite, actually.

http://www.highlandwildlifepark.org....-wildcats/2656

http://www.highlandtiger.com/

http://www.scottishwildcats.co.uk/

http://www.wildcathaven.co.uk/

Cheers,