Clan Shows Support for Scottish Wildcats

Not only is it a big anniversary year for the Highland Wildlife Park which celebrated its 40th in June this year, but 2012 is also the 20^th anniversary of the Clan Macpherson's  support for the Scottish wildcats at the Park.

A truly iconic Scottish species, the wildcats at the Highland Wildlife Park have been adopted by the Clan Macpherson since 1992.

The Scottish wildcat features in the clan's crest and has represented the Macphersons for centuries. The Highland Wildlife Park is commemorating their support at the clan's next gathering in August. This annual gathering will see Macphersons from all over gather at the Park for this milestone in their continual support for the Scottish wildcat.

Scottish wildcats, also known as Highland tigers, are one of Britain's rarest animals with as few as 400 thought to be left in the UK, with the majority of the population found in the Scottish Highlands.  These felines at first glance could be mistaken for a feral domestic cat, although they have several characteristics unique to wildcats.  Wildcats have wider heads, distinctive striped coats and blunt bushy tails. Species adoption contributes to the important on-going conservation work to safeguard this iconic species.

Daska Mackintosh, Visitor Services Manager at the Highland Wildlife Park, said:

"As the Park celebrates 40 years in the Scottish Highlands we're also delighted to be celebrating with one of our long standing animal adopters - the Clan Macpherson!

We're thrilled to have had their support for one of Scotland's most iconic species. We have six wildcats, which are also known as Highland tigers, here at the Park. In April this year we welcomed two new-born wildcat kittens, Brave and Merida, which is really exciting for the Park and they will both go on to play a vital role in conserving this incredibly rare animal. The Macphersons have been supporting these "Highland tigers" at the park since the early 90's and we are delighted that for the next clan gathering they will be coming along to the Highland Wildlife Park to see our wildcats and unveil their commemorative sign."

If you want to help support one of Scotland's most iconic species or any other animal at the Highland Wildlife Park you can find out more by visiting our website www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/support/adoption/ or contact our adoption team on adoption@rzss.org.uk or call 0131 314 0374