Wild-born kittens have been confirmed for second year in row in Cairngorms

With summer in full swing, I’m happy to share that we’ve entered our third consecutive year of releasing wildcats into the wider Badenoch and Strathspey area.

Each time we open the doors of a wildcat’s release enclosure, I’m reminded of just how far this project has come – and the extraordinary support that’s made it all possible.

This year, the mostly dry weather has been kind to us, and our field team has been out day after day, tracking newly released cats and monitoring those already out there.

But perhaps the most exciting news has been kittens. For the second year in a row, wild-born kittens have been confirmed – which is an incredible milestone for wildcat recovery in Scotland and perhaps more than we had expected at this early stage in the project.

Thanks to camera trap footage, GPS collar data, and reports from the public (thank you!), we know that five of our previously released females – Arwen, Callie, Mareel, Sully, and Tattie – have had litters.

Other females are showing signs they may have kittens too. We’re keeping a close eye on them as we gather more information.

The team has also been out and about at the Highland Games – come rain or shine – and it’s been great to get out and meet with people face to face. We are thrilled to see growing interest from local communities. Whether it’s at Tomintoul, Newtonmore, or Abernethy, answering the questions of local community members, or hearing about their views is always important to us.

And for those looking to find out a bit more about Saving Wildcats, you may have seen our trailer for ‘Clinging by a Claw’. We’ve been working with SCOTLAND: The Big Picture on a new film narrated by Outlander’s Sam Heughan.

It provides an extraordinary insight into the journey of Scotland’s wildcats from the brink of extinction to their return to the wilds of the Cairngorms National Park in a way that’s never been seen before – raw, beautiful, and full of heart.

I’m very excited to be able to invite the local community to a screening of the film at the Spey Valley Cinema in Aviemore on Tuesday 30 September at 7pm. Entry is free but you must reserve a ticket. Hope to see you there!

From the big screen to the small screen: some readers may have seen the recently-broadcast episode of Springwatch which featured the wildcat project. Feedback on the episode has been very positive, and it can still be seen on the BBC iPlayer (episode 11).

And finally, a big thanks to everyone – especially to the young artists who sent in incredible drawings as part of our local art contest. The winning work is now on display at Highland Wildlife Park. Every effort, every conversation, every step helps bring wildcats back from the brink.

So, whether you’re following our work online, cheering us on from afar, or meeting us in person – thank you. More information on the Saving Wildcats project.

Helena Parsons, Saving Wildcats outreach and engagement manager