Focus on wild cats on World Cat Day

The European wildcat is said to be creeping through Saxony's forests again. On World Cat Day this Friday, the Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz (BUND) called for the protection of the shy animals and their habitats. Wildcats need human help, it said.

"The European wildcat is often mistaken for a domestic cat or has been forgotten because it was extinct in Saxony for a long time," explained Almut Gaisbauer, head of the "Wildcat Forests of Tomorrow" project in Saxony. However, cat lovers can help the "wild native" - with simple but effective steps.

"Wildcat forests of tomorrow" project

According to this, cat owners should have their outdoor cats consistently neutered. This is an important contribution to avoiding mating with wild cats and reducing the suffering of the approximately two million stray cats in Germany, it said. Anyone who feels connected to nature can take part in the "Wildcat Forests of Tomorrow" project.

Wildcats also threatened with extinction in Saxony

The European wildcat is a wild relative of the domestic cat and is considered a survivor. After being almost completely wiped out by humans, it can now be found again in many parts of Germany thanks to decades of conservation efforts, according to BUND. However, it remains endangered and is still acutely threatened with extinction in Saxony. The fragmentation of the landscape by roads, the loss of habitat and the mixing with domestic cats continue to affect the wildcat.

Actions for World Cat Day in Leipzig's alluvial forest

For World Cat Day, BUND Saxony is inviting visitors to the alluvial forest station in Leipzig this Sunday. In addition to an information stand, there will be games about wild cats for young animal lovers. An expert will also give an insight into the life of the shy predators.

Wildcat serves as flagship species

"For the European wildcat, the preservation and expansion of its habitats is crucial," emphasized Geißbauer. Intact and reconnected mixed deciduous forests are also vital for the survival of many other species. "The wildcat therefore serves as a flagship species. Anyone who is committed to the wildcat is also contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and the creation of healthy, climate-resilient ecosystems."

The "Wildcat Forests of Tomorrow" project will run for six years and is funded by the federal government. In Saxony, there is also funding from the Ministry of the Environment. In addition to the BUND federal association, several state associations are also involved.