I have chosen to run for the Scottish Wildcat, it is the only wild member of the cat family in the UK. The wildcat looks very similar to a very large tabby cat, but it is stockier with a fluffier, blunt tail. Distinct banding on the tail and markings on the body make it relatively easy to distinguish from domestic cats, although there is known to be a considerable amount of hybridisation in the wild populations.

Wildcats are restricted to small parts of the Scottish Highlands, where they feed on rabbits and ground-nesting birds. They are very shy, almost entirely nocturnal and found in woodlands in remote and restricted areas of the Scottish Highlands. They are rarely seen!

They are vulnerable in the wild and conservation efforts to save them are vital if we are not to see them disappear entirely. The Big Cat Sanctuary will be supporting Saving Wildcats in their breeding programme, rewilding is essential. Kittens born within the programme are  all potential candidates to join the Saving Wildcats conservation breeding for release centre where they will contribute directly to wildcat restoration in Scotland.

I hope you will help me to raise awareness and funds for our very own amazing little wild cat, before it's too late.

I am the Director of Cats and Conservation at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent. The centre is dedicated to the conservation of wild cats, their four pillars of ethos are welfare, breeding, education and conservation. The initiatives undertaken by the Sanctuary are a vital part in saving some of the planet’s most endangered and iconic species from extinction. The Sanctuary is proud to have contributed to the accredited co-ordinated breeding programmes as well as raising much needed funds and awareness.