Where to See Wild Cats in Scotland (Top 5 Places)

If you love cats, then you may also find wildcats fun. Wildcats look like domestic cats, but they have a thicker, bushier tail with black rings and black tips.

Scotland is one of the places to see wildcats in their natural habitat. Scottish Wildcats are often referred to as the “Tiger of the Highlands,” and they are critically endangered.

In this article, I will share the top 5 places to see wildcats in Scotland.

Wildcat Profile

Domain: Eukaryota

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Suborder: Feliformia

Family: Felidae

Subfamily: Felinae

Genus: Felis

Species: Felis silvestris

Scottish Wildcats live in mixed forests in the wild. Since they are solitary and nocturnal, it is much harder to spot them during the day.

Top 5 Places to See Wild Cats in Scotland

1. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a top destination to see Scottish wildcats in Scotland. The park was established in 2003 to conserve the wildlife around the Cairngorms.

Cairngorms National Park is one of the top places to see Scottish Wildcats through the dense forests and rugged landscapes. Since wildcats are secretive animals, they are mostly active at dawn and dusk. They may also be active during the day if they are not disturbed.

The park is also dedicated to saving the wildcat population. They have introduced different programs to release wildcats into the park.

The best time to visit Cairngorms is during the dawn or dusk when wildcats are most active.

2. Highland Wildlife Park

Highland Wildlife Park is a safari park located near Kingussie, Highland, Scotland. This park is ideal for close-up encounters with Scottish wildcats.

If you want to learn about wildcats and their day-to-day lives, then Highland Park is the place to go. Visitors are also allowed to drive around the Main Reserve in their cars.

3. Abernethy Forest

Abernethy Forest is located within the Cairngorms close to the villages of Nethy Bridge, Boat of Garten, and Aviemore.

This is another place to see wildcats in their natural habitat. The best spots for viewing wildcats in Abernethy Forest are quieter areas away from the main trails.

The Abernethy National Nature Reserve covers the majority of Abernethy Forest and is home to more elusive animals like wildcats.

4. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Another place to see wildcats in Scotland is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This national park is home to a lot of wildlife due to the diverse range of habitats within the park.

The varied terrain offers hiding spots for wildcats, making it more difficult to see them. The good news is that you can join a guided wildlife tour to increase your chances of spotting a wildcat.

 

5. Glen Affric

Glen Affric is located southwest of the village of Cannich in Scotland. This destination is often described as the most beautiful glen in Scotland due to the stunning landscape.

The dense woodlands in Glen Affric are home to many wild animals, including the Scottish Wildcat.

Different hiking trails take you deep into the wildcat territory. But you have to move quietly and keep your eyes peeled to spot these elusive cats.

Conclusion

Wildcats are elusive and rare in the wild. In this article, I have shared the top 5 places to see wildcats in Scotland.

In summary, the best places to see wildcats in Scotland are Cairngorms National Park, Highland Wildlife Park, Abernethy Forest, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, and Glen Affric.

FAQs

Are Scottish Wildcats dangerous?

Scottish wildcats are not dangerous to humans. They are generally shy and avoid human contact, but they can become aggressive when defending themselves or their young.

Can I see Scottish Wildcats in zoos?

Yes, several wildlife parks and zoos in Scotland have Scottish wildcats. Most people prefer seeing wildlife in the wild.