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Andrew C Kitchener - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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distinguishing the victim from the threat snp based methods reveal the extent of introgressive hybridization between Wildcats and domestic cats in scotland and inform future in situ and ex situ management options for species restoration
Evolutionary Applications, 2019Co-Authors: Helen Senn, Andrew C Kitchener, Ruairidh D Campbell, David W. Macdonald, Muhammad Ghazali, Jennifer Kaden, David Barclay, Ben HarrowerAbstract:The degree of introgressive hybridization between the Scottish Wildcat and domestic cat has long been suspected to be advanced. Here, we use a 35‐SNP‐marker test, designed to assess hybridization between Wildcat and domestic cat populations in Scotland, to assess a database of 295 wild‐living and captive cat samples, and test the assumptions of the test using 3,097 SNP markers generated independently in a subset of the data using ddRAD. We discovered that despite increased genetic resolution provided by these methods, wild‐living cats in Scotland show a complete genetic continuum or hybrid swarm structure when judged against reference data. The historical population of Wildcats, although hybridized, clearly groups at one end of this continuum, as does the captive population of Wildcats. The interpretation of pelage scores against nuclear genetic data continues to be problematic. This is probably because of a breakdown in linkage equilibrium between Wildcat pelage genes as the two populations have become increasingly mixed, meaning that pelage score or SNP score alone is poor diagnostic predictors of hybrid status. Until better tools become available, both should be used jointly, where possible, when making management decisions about individual cats. We recommend that the conservation community in Scotland must now define clearly what measures are to be used to diagnose a Wildcat in the wild in Scotland, if future conservation action is to be effective.
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domestic cat neutering to preserve the scottish Wildcat
Veterinary Record, 2018Co-Authors: Anna Meredith, Andrew C Kitchener, Helen Senn, Alice Bacon, Bantick Allan, Stuart Brooks, Kenny Kortland, David Hetherington, Susan DaviesAbstract:Responsible pet cat ownership is a shared goal of the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations, the majority of the pet-owning public and government. However, the number of unwanted and feral cats continues to grow, indicating that current control measures are insufficient. The UK feral cat population is estimated at around one million and they can suffer from inhumane persecution, reproductive stresses, malnutrition, injuries and disease.2 Although 90 per cent of owners neuter their cats,1 with a UK cat population of around 10 million, this represents at least one million unneutered animals. Pre-pubertal neutering is advocated by the BVA, BSAVA and the Cat Group,3–5 among others, but only 61 per cent of vets recommend this.1 Non-pedigree cat breeding is often unplanned1 and uncontrolled due to cats’ free-ranging nature. > We are concerned about the additional threat to the Scottish Wildcat from hybridisation with unneutered pet and feral cats As members of Scottish Wildcat Action (SWA) we are concerned about the additional threat to the Scottish Wildcat ( Felis silvestris ) from hybridisation with unneutered pet and feral cats. With the Scottish Wildcat nearing extinction,6 the Scottish Wildcat Conservation Action Plan,7 representing over 20 key organisations, aims to secure its future as …
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Mapping the spatial configuration of hybridization risk for an endangered population of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) in Scotland
Mammal Research, 2016Co-Authors: Kerry Kilshaw, Andrew C Kitchener, Paul J. Johnson, Ruairidh D Campbell, Robert A. Montgomery, David A. Hetherington, David W. Macdonald, Joshua J. MillspaughAbstract:The Wildcat in Scotland, UK, is currently at risk of extinction because of hybridization with feral domestic cats (ferals) and hybrids (Wildcat × domestic cat crosses). Conservation efforts are hampered by limited information on the distribution of these three cat types and the spatial variation in hybridization risk. From January 2010 to July 2013, we conducted widespread camera-trapping surveys throughout northern Scotland to document the distribution of ferals, hybrids, and Wildcats. Using single-season occupancy models, we predicted the probability of occupancy for these three cat types across Scotland. Over 49,031 camera-trapping days, we had 87 captures (photo of a cat at a camera-trap station within a 24-h period) of Wildcats, 145 captures of hybrids, and 193 captures of ferals. At over 48 % of the camera-trap stations where we detected Wildcats, we also detected ferals or hybrids. We predicted Wildcat occupancy as a function of habitat covariates. Wildcat occupancy probability increased in habitat with a higher proportion of mixed woodland habitat and decreased in habitat with more edge (transition from closed to open habitats). Hybrids showed a clear overlap in their distribution pattern with both ferals and Wildcats. The results indicate that Wildcats in Scotland are at risk of hybridization across much of their current distribution from ferals and/or hybrids. In particular, hybrids have an increased probability of occupying much of the same habitat as Wildcats compared to ferals, supporting recent suggestions that hybrids may pose a significant additional hybridization threat by facilitating gene flow between Wildcats and ferals.
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detecting the elusive scottish Wildcat felis silvestris silvestris using camera trapping
Oryx, 2015Co-Authors: Kerry Kilshaw, Paul J. Johnson, Andrew C KitchenerAbstract:Population monitoring is important for conservation management but difficult to achieve for rare, cryptic species. Reliable information about the Critically Endangered Scottish Wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris is lacking because of difficulties in morphological and genetic identification, resulting from extensive hybridization with feral domestic cats Felis catus. We carried out camera-trap surveys in the Cairngorms National Park, UK, to examine the feasibility of camera trapping, combined with a pelage identification method, to monitor Scottish Wildcats. Camera trapping detected individually identifiable Wildcats. Of 13 individual wild-living cats, four scored as Wildcats based on pelage characters and the rest were Wildcat × domestic cat hybrids. Spatially explicit capture–recapture density estimation methods generated a density of wild-living cats (Wildcats and hybrids) of 68.17 ± SE 9.47 per 100 km2. The impact of reducing trapping-grid size, camera-trap numbers and survey length on density estimates was investigated using spatially explicit capture–recapture models. Our findings indicate camera trapping is more effective for monitoring Wildcats than other methods currently used and capture success could be increased by using bait, placing camera stations ≤ 1.5 km apart, increasing the number of camera stations, and surveying for 60–70 days. This study shows that camera trapping is effective for confirming the presence of the Wildcat in potential target areas for conservation management.
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survey and scoping of Wildcat priority areas
2014Co-Authors: Nick A Littlewood, Kerry Kilshaw, Andrew C Kitchener, Ruairidh D Campbell, L Dinnie, Lucy Gilbert, R Hooper, Glenn R Iason, Justin Irvine, P LackovaAbstract:This report summarises the findings of three complementary projects commissioned by SNH to inform the selection of Priority Areas for Wildcat conservation; as proposed in the Scottish Wildcat Conservation Action Plan 2013. The scoping projects combined field surveys, taxonomic and genetic assessments, population modelling and a questionnaire survey of public attitudes to Wildcat conservation measures. The report makes a recommendations for six Wildcat Priority Areas from the nine areas pre-selected by SNH for survey. The sites recommended as Priority Areas all had evidence of cats that were classified as Wildcats based on their appearance. However, domestic cats or hybrids (between domestic cats and Wildcats) were also found, highlighting the need for conservation actions to reduce the risks they pose to Wildcats from hybridisation and disease.
Bernardino Ragni - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Habitat fragmentation and anthropogenic factors affect Wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris occupancy and detectability on Mt Etna
Wildlife Biology, 2019Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Bernardino Ragni, Sébastien Devillard, Federica Mattucci, Francesco Rovero, Mario Lo ValvoAbstract:Knowledge of patterns of occupancy is crucial for planning sound biological management and for identifying areas which require paramount conservation attention. The European Wildcat Felis silvestris is an elusive carnivore and is classified as ‘least concern' on the IUCN red list, but with a decreasing population trend in some areas. Sicily hosts a peculiar Wildcat population, which deserves conservation and management actions, due to its isolation from the mainland. Patterns of occupancy for Wildcats are unknown in Italy, and especially in Sicily. We aimed to identify which ecological drivers determined Wildcat occurrence on Mt Etna and to provide conservation actions to promote the Wildcats’ long-term survival in this peculiar environment. The genetic identity of the Wildcat population was confirmed through a scat-collection which detected 22 different Wildcat individuals. We analysed Wildcat detections collected by 91 cameras using an occupancy frame work to assess which covariates influenced the detection (p) and the occupancy (ψ) estimates. We recorded 70 detections of the target species from 38 cameras within 3377 trap-days. Wildcat detection was positively influenced by the distance to the major paved roads and negatively affected by the presence of humans. Wildcat occupancy was positively associated with mixed forest and negatively influenced by pine forest, fragmentation of mixed forest and altitude. A spatially explicit predicted occupancy map, validated using an independent dataset of Wildcat presence records, showed that higher occupancy estimates were scattered, mainly located on the north face and at lower altitude. Habitat fragmentation has been claimed as a significant threat for the Wildcat and this is the first study that has ascertained this as a limiting factor for Wildcat occurrence. Conservation actions should promote interconnectivity between areas with high predicted Wildcat occupancy while minimising the loss of habitat.
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home range size of the european Wildcat felis silvestris silvestris a report from two areas in central italy
Mammalia, 2017Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Lolita Bizzarri, Bernardino Ragni, Andrea Sforzi, Moreno Lacrimini, Sébastien DevillardAbstract:Although the behavioural ecology of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) has been studied in several European countries, its home-range size is still poorly known due to elusive behaviour of the species living in typically low population densities. In our study, 11 Wildcats from two distinct areas, the Maremma Regional Park (Tuscany; 3 males and 1 female) and the Paradiso di Pianciano Estate (Umbria; 6 males and 1 female), both located in Central Italy, were studied by means of classical VHF radio-tracking. Home ranges were calculated by means of the Brownian bridge movement model (BBMM). Variables significantly affecting home-range size were: study area, gender and the interaction between gender*age. The potential effect of the reproductive season and the nocturnal period was not supported. The main findings indicate that: (1) home-range sizes in Tuscany were larger than those in Umbria; (2) home-range size was positively related to the age of individuals; (3) males exploited larger home ranges than females in all age-classes except for the sub-adult age-class; this latter pattern has never emerged from any previous Wildcat radio-telemetry study. Population density, different management regimes in the areas considered and the local abundance of prey may explain differences in home-range sizes between the study areas. The estimated home ranges of Wildcats in Umbria were slightly larger than those reported across Europe, while those calculated in the Tuscan study area were significantly greater.
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Long-term changes in diet and trophic niche of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) in Italy
Mammal Research, 2016Co-Authors: Fabiola Apostolico, Francesca Vercillo, Gianandrea La Porta, Bernardino RagniAbstract:Previous studies on the feeding habits of the European Wildcat ( Felis silvestris silvestris ) have shown high variability in the diet and in the degree of trophic specialisation of this felid. In order to update and improve the knowledge about the feeding habits of this carnivore, its diet and trophic niche in Italy were examined based on the material collected in 1996–2003 and compared with data obtained in 1968–1987 and with those from literature concerning other European areas. The present study pointed out that in Italy, the European Wildcat displayed a broad dietary spectrum. Rodents permanently constituted the main food category; however, the most consumed prey shifted from Cricetidae in the past to Muridae more recently. Through time, the felid has changed its main prey and exploited a greater number of food categories reducing the predominant consumption of some of them. These changes involved an increase of the diet diversity resulting in a widening of the trophic niche and an incomplete niche overlap between time periods. Long-term changes in diet and trophic niche of the European Wildcat which were found in this study indicate high flexibility of its feeding habits. This was confirmed by a review of the relevant literature on Wildcat diet in Europe, which highlights the ability of this felid to either specialise on different main food items or to widen its feeding spectrum depending on the availability of prey.
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Non-invasive monitoring of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris Schreber, 1777): comparative analysis of three different monitoring techniques and evaluation of their integration
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2015Co-Authors: Edoardo Velli, Bernardino Ragni, Marco A. Bologna, Castelli Silvia, Ettore RandiAbstract:The European Wildcat is threatened by habitat fragmentation, illegal or incidental killings and hybridization with free-ranging domestic cats. Conservation projects should be based on a sound knowledge of the patterns of Wildcat distribution, population size and dynamics. However, this information is scanty, mainly because of the species’ elusive behaviour. In this study, we tested the efficiency of a protocol that integrates the use of non-invasive genetic identifications and camera trapping for Wildcat monitoring. The field work was carried out in the Foreste Casentinesi National Park, a protected area in the central Italian Apennines, where Wildcat presence has been recently ascertained. DNA samples were extracted from scats collected during the survey and hair tufts trapped by valerian-treated sticks. Individual genotypes were identified using 10 autosomal microsatellites, mtDNA and Y chromosome markers. Additionally, we obtained 30-s long video clips from 20 camera trap stations associated to the hair traps. Our results confirmed the presence of Wildcats in the study area. We identified six to nine Wildcat individuals (respectively from non-invasive genetic sampling and camera trapping survey). Some of these showed anomalous coat colour patterns (one) or genetic signatures of hybridization (three). We further identified five domestic cats that were sharing parts of Wildcats’ territories. We found individual variations in the response to valerian lure. We compared and evaluated the pros and cons of these monitoring methods. We concluded that, if used simultaneously, these methods may considerably increase the efficiency of Wildcat detection and the quality of collected data.
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Wildcat population density on the etna volcano italy a comparison of density estimation methods
Journal of Zoology, 2014Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Bernardino Ragni, Ettore Randi, F Mattucci, Francesco RoveroAbstract:The European Wildcat is an elusive felid that is declining across its range. Sicily hosts a distinctive insular Wildcat population, the conservation of which requires much better ecological knowledge than is currently available, particularly population density. We simultaneously used two noninvasive methods (camera-trapping and scat-collection) to estimate the population density of Wildcats on the Etna volcano. We conducted genetic analyses to identify individuals and to detect potential hybridization with the domestic cat. We analyzed individual capture-histories from camera-trapping and scat-collection using the spatially explicit capture-recapture (SECR) model. Furthermore, we applied the random encounter model (REM), which does not require individual identification, to the camera-trapping data. We identified 14 Wildcats from 70 photographic detections (6.48 detections/100 trap-days) obtained from 1080 camera-trapping days over 4 months, and we estimated to have identified all the individuals living in the study area (10.9 km−2). On the contrary, we identified 10 Wildcats from 14 out of 39 scats collected from 391 km of transects walked. The estimated densities (individuals km−2 ± se) were 0.32 ± 0.1 (SECR camera-trapping), 1.36 ± 0.73 (SECR scat-collection) and 0.39 ± 0.03 (REM). The population density estimates obtained from SECR camera-trapping and REM overlapped, although we recommend care when applying the latter. The SECR scat-collection gave the highest population density (and less precise) estimates because of the low number of capture and recaptures; however, the population size estimated with this method matched the number of individuals photographed. The population density of the Wildcat in Etna falls in the medium-high range of those reported in literature, highlighting the role of this ecosystem for the long-term conservation of the Wildcat in Sicily. Camera-trapping is confirmed as a useful tool to assess the Wildcat population density and, in this case, was complemented by the genetic analysis that confirmed individual identity.
Stefano Anile - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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survival and cause specific mortality of european Wildcat felis silvestris across europe
Biological Conservation, 2021Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Pedro Monterroso, Mathias Herrmann, Matteo Luca Bastianelli, Joseph Premier, Tobias Kuemmerle, Carsten F DormannAbstract:Abstract Humans have transformed most landscapes across the globe, forcing other species to adapt in order to persist in increasingly anthropogenic landscapes. Wide-ranging solitary species, such as wild felids, struggle particularly in such landscapes. Conservation planning and management for their long-term persistence critically depends on understanding what determine survival and what are the main mortality risks. We carried out the first study on annual survival and cause-specific mortality of the European Wildcat with a large and unique dataset of 211 tracked individuals from 22 study areas across Europe. Furthermore, we tested the effect of environmental and human disturbance variables on the survival probability. Our results show that mortalities were mainly human-caused, with roadkill and poaching representing 57% and 22% of the total annual mortality, respectively. The annual survival probability of Wildcat was 0.92 (95% CI = 0.87–0.98) for females and 0.84 (95% CI = 0.75–0.94) for males. Road density strongly impacted Wildcat annual survival, whereby an increase in the road density of motorways and primary roads by 1 km/km2 in Wildcat home-ranges increased mortality risk ninefold. Low-traffic roads, such as secondary and tertiary roads, did not significantly affect Wildcat's annual survival. Our results deliver key input parameters for population viability analyses, provide planning-relevant information to maintain subcritical road densities in key Wildcat habitats, and identify conditions under which Wildcat-proof fences and wildlife crossing structures should be installed to decrease Wildcat mortality.
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anthropogenic threats drive spatio temporal responses of Wildcat on mt etna
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2021Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Sébastien Devillard, Clayton K Nielsen, Mario Lo ValvoAbstract:Human expansion can cause disturbance and intrusion of invasive species, which are detrimental to small carnivores. We investigated how European Wildcats responded to disturbance from mushroom collectors, cattle and feral pigs in Sicily, Italy. We used detections from 76 cameras over 2 surveys (2015–2016 and 2018; camera days = 1985) to run occupancy and co-occurrence models and estimate overlap in activity patterns between species pairs. During 2015–2016, Wildcats were detected at the same location with cattle, mushroom hunters and feral pigs at 14.4%, 26.3% and 17.1% of cameras. During 2018, Wildcats were detected at the same location with cattle, mushroom hunters and feral pigs at 7.8%, 19.7% and 6.5% of cameras. Dominant species (A; cattle, mushroom hunters and feral pigs) did not affect occupancy of the subordinate species (B; Wildcats) during 2015–2016. In 2018, the effect of species A on Wildcat occupancy was evident for cattle-Wildcat and mushroom hunters-Wildcat pairs and Wildcat occupancy was higher at sites where species A was not present. Probabilities of detecting Wildcats at sites where species A was not present or not detected were higher than probabilities of detecting Wildcats at sites where species A was detected. Overlap in activity levels was low between mushroom hunters and Wildcats and higher between cattle and Wildcats, but varied between surveys for feral pig-Wildcat pair. Although results differed between survey periods, we suggest that Wildcats generally avoided cattle, feral pigs and mushroom hunters, at both temporal and spatial scales. Anthropogenic disturbance, livestock and invasive species are emerging threats to Wildcats and future conservation actions should consider our results.
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Habitat fragmentation and anthropogenic factors affect Wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris occupancy and detectability on Mt Etna
Wildlife Biology, 2019Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Bernardino Ragni, Sébastien Devillard, Federica Mattucci, Francesco Rovero, Mario Lo ValvoAbstract:Knowledge of patterns of occupancy is crucial for planning sound biological management and for identifying areas which require paramount conservation attention. The European Wildcat Felis silvestris is an elusive carnivore and is classified as ‘least concern' on the IUCN red list, but with a decreasing population trend in some areas. Sicily hosts a peculiar Wildcat population, which deserves conservation and management actions, due to its isolation from the mainland. Patterns of occupancy for Wildcats are unknown in Italy, and especially in Sicily. We aimed to identify which ecological drivers determined Wildcat occurrence on Mt Etna and to provide conservation actions to promote the Wildcats’ long-term survival in this peculiar environment. The genetic identity of the Wildcat population was confirmed through a scat-collection which detected 22 different Wildcat individuals. We analysed Wildcat detections collected by 91 cameras using an occupancy frame work to assess which covariates influenced the detection (p) and the occupancy (ψ) estimates. We recorded 70 detections of the target species from 38 cameras within 3377 trap-days. Wildcat detection was positively influenced by the distance to the major paved roads and negatively affected by the presence of humans. Wildcat occupancy was positively associated with mixed forest and negatively influenced by pine forest, fragmentation of mixed forest and altitude. A spatially explicit predicted occupancy map, validated using an independent dataset of Wildcat presence records, showed that higher occupancy estimates were scattered, mainly located on the north face and at lower altitude. Habitat fragmentation has been claimed as a significant threat for the Wildcat and this is the first study that has ascertained this as a limiting factor for Wildcat occurrence. Conservation actions should promote interconnectivity between areas with high predicted Wildcat occupancy while minimising the loss of habitat.
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home range size of the european Wildcat felis silvestris silvestris a report from two areas in central italy
Mammalia, 2017Co-Authors: Stefano Anile, Lolita Bizzarri, Bernardino Ragni, Andrea Sforzi, Moreno Lacrimini, Sébastien DevillardAbstract:Although the behavioural ecology of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) has been studied in several European countries, its home-range size is still poorly known due to elusive behaviour of the species living in typically low population densities. In our study, 11 Wildcats from two distinct areas, the Maremma Regional Park (Tuscany; 3 males and 1 female) and the Paradiso di Pianciano Estate (Umbria; 6 males and 1 female), both located in Central Italy, were studied by means of classical VHF radio-tracking. Home ranges were calculated by means of the Brownian bridge movement model (BBMM). Variables significantly affecting home-range size were: study area, gender and the interaction between gender*age. The potential effect of the reproductive season and the nocturnal period was not supported. The main findings indicate that: (1) home-range sizes in Tuscany were larger than those in Umbria; (2) home-range size was positively related to the age of individuals; (3) males exploited larger home ranges than females in all age-classes except for the sub-adult age-class; this latter pattern has never emerged from any previous Wildcat radio-telemetry study. Population density, different management regimes in the areas considered and the local abundance of prey may explain differences in home-range sizes between the study areas. The estimated home ranges of Wildcats in Umbria were slightly larger than those reported across Europe, while those calculated in the Tuscan study area were significantly greater.
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Survey on parasitic infections in Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris Schreber, 1777) by scat collection
Parasitology Research, 2016Co-Authors: Ettore Napoli, Stefano Anile, Carmelo Arrabito, Davide Scornavacca, Maria Vittoria Mazzamuto, Domenico Otranto, Gabriella Gaglio, Salvatore Giannetto, E. BriantiAbstract:Wildcats are endangered felid species living in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Regrettably, scientific information on parasites of Wildcats is particularly meager and they often rely on data gained by necropsies of a small number of animals. In the present study, scat collection was used to assess the parasite spectrum of European Wildcats living in the Etna Park (Sicily, Italy). Scat collection was performed from May to September 2010 by weekly walking four transects for a total of 391 km. Samples were then analyzed by flotation and sedimentation techniques to investigate Wildcat parasitic fauna. A total of 121 scats of Wildcats were collected, and parasitic forms (i.e., oocysts, eggs, and larvae) were retrieved in 110 (90.9 %) of the samples. Parasites found were Physaloptera sp. (52.1 %), tapeworms (45.5 %), Toxocara cati (43.8 %), Eucoleus aerophilus (27.3 %), Ancylostoma sp. (22.3 %), Troglostrongylus brevior (15.7 %), trematodes (9.9 %), Isospora felis (4.1 %), Cylicospirura sp. (1.7 %), and Acanthocephala (0.8 %). The prevalence of endoparasitic infections herein recorded is similar to that described in other studies conducted using necropsy technique. The species richness of parasites found in the present survey, with a total of nine helminths and one protozoon, is the highest ever reported for Wildcat in Europe. Scat collection and examination are reliable and rapid non-invasive tools which can be used in a systematic survey design to study the parasite spectrum of Wildcat as well as that of other endangered wild species.
David W. Macdonald - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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distinguishing the victim from the threat snp based methods reveal the extent of introgressive hybridization between Wildcats and domestic cats in scotland and inform future in situ and ex situ management options for species restoration
Evolutionary Applications, 2019Co-Authors: Helen Senn, Andrew C Kitchener, Ruairidh D Campbell, David W. Macdonald, Muhammad Ghazali, Jennifer Kaden, David Barclay, Ben HarrowerAbstract:The degree of introgressive hybridization between the Scottish Wildcat and domestic cat has long been suspected to be advanced. Here, we use a 35‐SNP‐marker test, designed to assess hybridization between Wildcat and domestic cat populations in Scotland, to assess a database of 295 wild‐living and captive cat samples, and test the assumptions of the test using 3,097 SNP markers generated independently in a subset of the data using ddRAD. We discovered that despite increased genetic resolution provided by these methods, wild‐living cats in Scotland show a complete genetic continuum or hybrid swarm structure when judged against reference data. The historical population of Wildcats, although hybridized, clearly groups at one end of this continuum, as does the captive population of Wildcats. The interpretation of pelage scores against nuclear genetic data continues to be problematic. This is probably because of a breakdown in linkage equilibrium between Wildcat pelage genes as the two populations have become increasingly mixed, meaning that pelage score or SNP score alone is poor diagnostic predictors of hybrid status. Until better tools become available, both should be used jointly, where possible, when making management decisions about individual cats. We recommend that the conservation community in Scotland must now define clearly what measures are to be used to diagnose a Wildcat in the wild in Scotland, if future conservation action is to be effective.
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Mapping the spatial configuration of hybridization risk for an endangered population of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) in Scotland
Mammal Research, 2016Co-Authors: Kerry Kilshaw, Andrew C Kitchener, Paul J. Johnson, Ruairidh D Campbell, Robert A. Montgomery, David A. Hetherington, David W. Macdonald, Joshua J. MillspaughAbstract:The Wildcat in Scotland, UK, is currently at risk of extinction because of hybridization with feral domestic cats (ferals) and hybrids (Wildcat × domestic cat crosses). Conservation efforts are hampered by limited information on the distribution of these three cat types and the spatial variation in hybridization risk. From January 2010 to July 2013, we conducted widespread camera-trapping surveys throughout northern Scotland to document the distribution of ferals, hybrids, and Wildcats. Using single-season occupancy models, we predicted the probability of occupancy for these three cat types across Scotland. Over 49,031 camera-trapping days, we had 87 captures (photo of a cat at a camera-trap station within a 24-h period) of Wildcats, 145 captures of hybrids, and 193 captures of ferals. At over 48 % of the camera-trap stations where we detected Wildcats, we also detected ferals or hybrids. We predicted Wildcat occupancy as a function of habitat covariates. Wildcat occupancy probability increased in habitat with a higher proportion of mixed woodland habitat and decreased in habitat with more edge (transition from closed to open habitats). Hybrids showed a clear overlap in their distribution pattern with both ferals and Wildcats. The results indicate that Wildcats in Scotland are at risk of hybridization across much of their current distribution from ferals and/or hybrids. In particular, hybrids have an increased probability of occupying much of the same habitat as Wildcats compared to ferals, supporting recent suggestions that hybrids may pose a significant additional hybridization threat by facilitating gene flow between Wildcats and ferals.
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local level determinants of Wildcat occupancy in northeast scotland
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2013Co-Authors: Andre P Silva, Paul J. Johnson, David W. Macdonald, Luis Miguel Rosalino, Neil Anderson, Kerry KilshawAbstract:We studied the influence of food abundance, land cover and disturbance on European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris Schreber, 1777) presence in Scotland. Wildcat records were collected using camera trapping, and prey data were assessed through linear transects and small mammal trapping. Surveys were carried out in three study areas in northeast Scotland. Wildcat occupancy was best predicted by a combination of food and land cover variables. This species detection was associated with higher rodent abundance and areas of higher habitat diversity encompassing patches of mixed and coniferous woodlands. Wildcat presence was negatively linked with the prevalence of dwarf shrub areas. We suggest that Wildcat conservation actions at local scale should take into account the availability of feeding resources and landscape heterogeneity.
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Wildcat occurrence in scotland food really matters
Diversity and Distributions, 2013Co-Authors: Andre P Silva, Kerry Kilshaw, Paul J. Johnson, David W. Macdonald, Luis Miguel RosalinoAbstract:ABSTRACTAim European Wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris (Schreber, 1775) populations aresuffering considerable threats, making conservation action a priority. InScotland, the establishment of Special Areas of Wildcat Conservation (SAWC)have been recommended; however, few studies have addressed Wildcat ecologicalrequirements in this region. Our goal was to identify the environmental deter-minants limiting Wildcat occurrence at a broad scale in Scotland.Location Scotland, Europe.Methods We examined data from the recent Scottish Wildcat survey (2006–2008) and the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Gateway. Presence andpseudo-absence data from 71 sampling units (10 km 9 10 km) were used togenerate models explaining probable Wildcat occurrence. Models were builtbased on three pre-established hypotheses using generalized linear models(GLM-Logit).Results European rabbit presence, high rodent diversity and the prevalence oflarge grassland areas were positively associated with probable Wildcat occurrence.Heather moorland, sampling units with few grassland patches or secondarywatercourses and higher elevation ranges were associated with probable Wildcatabsence. We found no evidence that forested areas or human disturbance wereinfluential.Main conclusions Our results suggest that Wildcats may benefit from hetero-geneity within the landscape matrix, reinforcing the idea that the Wildcat is notprimarily a forest species (as has traditionally been inferred from studies of thespecies elsewhere). We conclude that less mountainous areas, with a diverselandscape including woodland and grassland supporting rabbits and a diversityof small rodents are a priority for Wildcat conservation efforts.KeywordsBroad-scale distribution, ecological determinants, Felis silvestris silvestris,prey presence, Scotland, Wildcat conservation.INTRODUCTIONThe prediction of species’ distribution and occurrence isimportant in conservation biology, particularly for species thatare both difficult to survey and threatened (Rushton et al.,2004). Carnivores are frequent targets for conservation action(Carroll et al., 2001; Gittleman et al., 2001). They are threa-tened by a range of principally anthropogenic factors, bothdirect (habitat loss, persecution) and indirect (prey shortage)(Nowell & Jackson, 1996). Spatial modelling is a tool com-monly used to assess the environmental determinants affectingspecies spatial distribution and can be useful to design conser-vation strategies (Macdonald & Rushton, 2003; Rushton et al.,2004). Understanding the ecological requirements of a speciescan therefore be useful for predicting how landscape factorscan affect populations’ survival and distribution.The Wildcat (Felis silvestris) is found in Africa, Asia andEurope and is one of the most numerous and widespreadsmall felid species (Kitchener & Rees, 2009). Although classi-fied as Least Concern by the IUCN (Driscoll & Nowell,2009), regional populations of the European Wildcat F. s.silvestris Schreber, 1775 are facing considerable threats and
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a suite of genetic markers useful in assessing Wildcat felis silvestris ssp domestic cat felis silvestris catus admixture
Journal of Heredity, 2011Co-Authors: Carlos A Driscoll, Nobuyuki Yamaguchi, Stephen J Obrien, David W. MacdonaldAbstract:The Wildcat (Felis silvestris ssp.) is a conservation concern largely due to introgressive hybridization with its congener F. s. catus, the common domestic cat. Because of a recent divergence and entirely overlapping ranges, hybridization is common and pervasive between these taxa threatening the genetic integrity of remaining Wildcat populations. Identifying pure Wildcats for inclusion in conservation programs using current morphological discriminants is difficult because of gross similarity between them and the domestic, critically hampering conservation efforts. Here, we present a vetted panel of microsatellite loci and mitochondrial polymorphisms informative for each of the 5 naturally evolved Wildcat subspecies and the derived domestic cat. We also present reference genotypes for each assignment class. Together, these marker sets and corresponding reference genotypes allow for the development of a genetic rational for defining ‘‘units of conservation’’ within a phylogenetically based taxonomy of the entire F. silvestris species complex. We anticipate this marker panel will allow conservators to assess genetic integrity and quantify admixture in managed Wildcat populations and to be a starting point for more in-depth analysis of hybridization.
Emilio Virgos - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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fragmentation and low density as major conservation challenges for the southernmost populations of the european Wildcat
PLOS ONE, 2020Co-Authors: Jose Maria Gilsanchez, Jose Miguel Bareaazcon, Javier Martin Jaramillo, Javier F Herrerasanchez, Jose Jimenez, Emilio VirgosAbstract:Knowledge of population dynamics of threatened species in the wild is key to effective conservation actions. However, at present, there are many examples of endangered animals for which their current situation is unknown, and not just in remote areas and less developed countries. We have explored this topic by studying the paradigmatic case of the European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris), an endangered small carnivore whose status has been subjectively established on the basis of non-systematic approaches and opportunistic records. Little is known about its demographic situation, prompting the need for information to improve conservation measures. However, the secretive behaviour of felines along with its low density in natural conditions have prevented the gathering of sufficient data. We developed a field sampling strategy for one of the largest populations (Andalusia, South Spain, 87,268 km2), based on a logistically viable systematic non-intrusive survey by camera-trapping. This study offers the first large-scale estimation for any European Wildcat population, based on analytical approaches applied on Species Distribution Models. A hierarchical approach based on a Maxent model for distribution estimation was used, along with Generalised Linear Models for density estimation from explicit spatial capture-recapture data. Our results show that the distribution range is smaller and more highly fragmented than previously assumed. The overall estimated density was very low (0.069 ±0.0019 Wildcats/km2) and the protected areas network seems to be insufficient to cover a significant part of the population or a viable nucleus in demographic terms. Indeed, the most important areas remain unprotected. Our main recommendations are to improve the protected area network and/or vigilance programs in hunting estates, in addition to studying and improving connectivity between the main population patches.
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monitoring european Wildcat felis silvestris populations using scat surveys in central spain are population trends related to wild rabbit dynamics or to landscape features
Zoological Studies, 2013Co-Authors: Jorge Lozano, Emilio Virgos, Sara CabezasdiazAbstract:Accurate data on the European Wildcat Felis silvestris population trends are scarce for most of its range, despite this information being essential in assessing the threat status of the species. Moreover, ecological correlates of these population trends have never been evaluated. The aim of this study was to describe population trends of the European Wildcat in a central region of Spain during the period 1997 to 2005 on both regional and local scales. Putative associations with several landscape features and wild rabbit population trajectories were also examined. Analyses were based on temporal variations of abundance indexes calculated for both species, which were derived from the respective frequencies of occurrence of scats along linear transects. Moreover, we propose monitoring Wildcat populations across their range using scat surveys. Results showed that Wildcat populations remained stable between the two survey periods considered, and variations in Wildcat abundances were not associated with either habitat features or changes in rabbit abundances. Moreover, results suggested that Wildcat predation does not limit the growth capacity of rabbit populations. We propose standardized scat surveys as the most efficient methodology for monitoring Wildcat populations across European regions. Problems with genetic analyses for correctly identifying carnivore scats are noted, which indicate that the best complementary method for monitoring Wildcats is probably camera trapping (especially where hybridization is suspected). Furthermore, results showed that controlling Wildcats to protect the rabbit populations is not justified.
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increase of large game species in mediterranean areas is the european Wildcat felis silvestris facing a new threat
Biological Conservation, 2007Co-Authors: Jorge Lozano, Emilio Virgos, Sara Cabezasdiaz, Julian G MangasAbstract:Abstract There are several factors that threaten Wildcat ( Felis silvestris ) populations in Europe, including habitat destruction, direct persecution and genetic introgression from domestic cats. However, in contrast to other predatory species, lack of prey availability has not been evaluated as a risk factor for Wildcats. In this study, we analyse the relationship between the abundance of Wildcats and the abundance of their preferred prey, the wild rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus ), and the abundance of two large ungulates, the wild boar ( Sus scrofa ) and red deer ( Cervus elaphus ). The study was conducted in a typical Mediterranean ecosystem, the Monfrague Natural Park (central Spain). We surveyed 30 (2 × 2 km) sites along a 2 km linear transect within each site, looking for signs indicating the presence of each species. Using this indirect method, we calculated an abundance index for each species based on their frequencies of occurrence. The results showed that the abundances of wild rabbits and ungulates were negatively associated. Moreover, Wildcat abundance was positively related to rabbit abundance, but negatively related to ungulate abundances. Thus, the high population densities that ungulates reach in some natural areas, promoted in many cases by the hunting management strategies, appear to jeopardise Wildcat populations by reducing rabbit availability. Therefore, as a new key action for the conservation of European Wildcat we advocate the change of hunting management strategies in order to control ungulate populations, and therefore facilitate the recovery of wild rabbit populations.
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biogeographical patterns in the diet of the Wildcat felis silvestris schreber in eurasia factors affecting the trophic diversity
Journal of Biogeography, 2006Co-Authors: Jorge Lozano, Marcos Moleon, Emilio VirgosAbstract:Aim To analyse the biogeographical patterns in the feeding habits and trophic diversity of prey of the Wildcat, Felis silvestris Schreber. Location The Eurasian distribution range from the Caucasian mountains to the Iberian Peninsula and Scotland. Methods We reviewed 15 studies to collate data on feeding behaviour across the current Wildcat distribution range. We considered nine prey groups and recorded the latitude, whether the location was within a Mediterranean bioclimate area, and rabbit presence. Prey groups were reduced into four PCA factors. Regression analyses were performed to examine the relationships of latitude with PCA factors and trophic diversity. anova was used to test if trophic diversity was higher at locations with Mediterranean climates. We also analysed the relationship between small rodent consumption and both Mediterranean climates and rabbit presence using anova. Finally, we confirmed the relationship between the frequency of Murinae and Microtinae in the diets and the presence of rabbits and with respect to Mediterranean climates controlling for latitude (mancova). Results Diet diversity was greatest in Mediterranean climates. Trophic diversity decreased when rodents formed the bulk of the diet, but increased with the inclusion of alternative prey such as rabbits and invertebrates. Small rodent consumption was also negatively related to rabbit consumption or presence. The inclusion of Murinae and Microtinae in the diet varied with latitude, with higher ingestion of the former in the southern locations and of the latter in northern areas. Main conclusions The trophic diversity of the Wildcat diet was associated with Mediterranean climatic conditions, being broader at more southern latitudes. At the continental scale, the Wildcat cannot be considered a rodent specialist because rabbits were preferred when they were present. Thus, we consider the Wildcat to be a facultative specialist. In addition, our results indicate that general trophic patterns in the diet of a species may not be accurately determined if the availability of alternative prey is not taken into account.
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a change of diet from rodents to rabbits oryctolagus cuniculus is the Wildcat felis silvestris a specialist predator
Journal of Zoology, 2004Co-Authors: Aurelio F Malo, Jorge Lozano, Daniel L Huertas, Emilio VirgosAbstract:The results of a study testing the hypothesis that Wildcats Felis silvestris are rodent-specialist predators is reported. The diet of Wildcats was studied in different habitats from central Spain where rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus were either present or absent in order to explore whether the Wildcat is a facultative or a rodent specialist. We predicted that if the Wildcat was a rodent specialist there would be no differences in rodent composition in scats between areas with or without another profitable prey such as rabbits. To test this hypothesis, 239 scats were collected in two contrasting habitat types: Mediterranean vegetation areas, where rabbits were either present or absent, and Pyrenean oak forests, where there were no rabbits. All areas and habitat types were sampled in different seasons. The frequency of occurrence and biomass of different prey items and diet diversity were compared between habitats and areas with the presence/absence of rabbits. Wildcats consumed significantly fewer rodents in areas with rabbits than in areas where rabbits were absent, and diet diversity showed important seasonal variations. Values for diet diversity were lower in areas where rabbits were present. Thus it can be stated that Wildcats do not specialize in rodents, and we suggest a facultative specialization on different prey items (rabbits or rodents) according to prey availability.
