IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Slotta-Bachmayr, L.; Meikl, M.; Hagenstein, I. | |
| Current status of the European wildcat (_Felis silvestris silvestris_, Schreber, 1777) in Austria | |
| 2016 Acta ZooBot Austria (153): 68-76 | |
At the moment the European wildcat (_Felis silvestris_) is considered extinct in Austria. Based on recent data, the current status of the wildcat in Austria is presented here. We also try to reassess the current status in the Red List in accordance with the concept by Zulka & Eder (2001). We may assume the presence of a small wildcat population that has not changed significantly over the last 25 years, but is spreading slightly. Immigration from neighboring countries is possible. Risk factors are shooting of wildcat-colored domestic cats, traffic, hybridization with and disease transmission from domestic cats. Habitat for wildcats is abundant in Austria and its quality has also increased in recent years. Meanwhile, observations have been made that hint at successful reproduction of the wildcat. Assuming a reproducing population, classification into the category CR (Critically Endangered) would be possible. If the Red List categorization assessment is based on habitat availability, the wildcat would appear not to be threatened in Austria. Clearly, habitat availability is not the limiting factor for the species. There is urgent need for action with the primary goal to increase population size. |
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