IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
|
||||||||||
|
||||||||||
|
|
| Fernandes, M. | |
| Wildcat occurrence in Portugal. Report in support of digital mapping | |
| 2007 Full Book | |
Knowledge of a species' distribution is fundamental for understanding its biology, ecology, natural history and also its threatened status. According to IUCN criteria for Red List assessments the areas of occurrence and occupancy of each species are important variables. For many species such as the wildcat in Portugal when the occupancy area is not well known data on its area of occurrence and its evolution through time is an important indicator of its threatened status. The wildcat was classified as Vulnerable in Portugal based on a suspicion of a past or future population decline reaching 30% in a time frame of 20 years. There has, however, not been a systematic monitoring of the species throughout the country. This report presents a compilation of dispersed data on the occurrence of the species from 1975 to 2006 which was the basis for designing a digital occurrence map for the Institute for Nature Conservation in Portugal. Data considered as a positive occurrence had the following origins: published works by several authors which implied field work in a specific area, signs of presence such as scats or footprints identified by experienced investigators, direct observation of dead animals confirmed by stuffed specimens or pelts, direct observation by experienced people such as forestry guards, taxidermists and field biologists (including live captures). Information from direct oral inquiries conducted in certain areas with the help of photographs was also used although this information should be taken as less reliable. Results are presented in 10x10km square maps (see annex). Absence of the species in some areas may be due to lack of prospection but in some other areas such as the most western natural parks following a few records of dead wildcats at the beginning of the nineties there has been no more recent information on its occurrence. If these local disappearances are confirmed the wildcat could be facing a considerable regression in its national area of occurrence. Monitoring programmes ought to be implemented urgently using combined methods in potential habitat areas: road monitoring, assessment of feral cat presence, systematic prospection with regular efforts in each area, molecular identification of scats and phototrapping (last two methods being the most reliable for this species). General recommendations for management of wildcat areas are made such as preservation of Mediterranean macquis and of areas with 30-50% of shrub cover and 25% of tree cover avoiding extensive vegetation removal associated with fire prevention initiatives and infrastructure construction. Restricted openings of clearances (<1 ha) can improve habitat quality for the wild rabbit and important prey of the species in the Mediterranean area. Other practices related to hunting areas are suggested such as strict surveillance of predator control actions if they exist, restriction of large hunting events with dogs avoiding disturbance during the reproductive season. Specific minimization measures of mortality in roads and canals for the wildcat are summarized including: underpasses of 2,00m diameter with natural floor a raised ledge above the level of water and guiding vegetation at the entrances; road fences of 1,80-2,00m high and less than 5cm mesh. Overpasses should be studied in sensitive areas of resident populations of wildcats. Digital wildcat occurrence maps can be requested from the ICNB and will hopefully contribute to a better management practice which considers wildcat presence in different areas of Portugal. |
|
 |
PDF files are only accessible to Friends of the Cat Group. Joining Friends of the Cat Group gives you unlimited access and downloads in the Cat SG Library for one year, and allows you to receive our newsletter Cat News (2 regular issues per year plus special issues). More information how to join here |
(c) IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group ( IUCN - The World Conservation Union) |