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The European wildcat (Felis silvestris) is a small wildcat species native to continental Europe, Scotland, Turkey and the Caucasus. It inhabits forests from the Iberian Peninsula , Italy, Central and Eastern Europe to the Caucasus.
The European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) is a small wildcat subspecies found in Europe. Wildcats and the other members of the cat family had a common ancestor about 10-15 million years ago. The European wildcat evolved during the Cromerian Stage about 866,000 to 478,000 years ago; its direct ancestor was Martelli’s cat (Felis lunensis).
European wildcats are considered solitary, mostly nocturnal and territorial predators. In areas with little human activity, wildcats are often active also during the day, with activity peaks at dawn and dusk.
Jun 13, 2024 · The European wildcat is a solitary, nocturnal animal that preys on birds and small mammals. It breeds once yearly (in spring) in continental Europe and twice (sometimes three times) yearly in Scotland.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Sep 14, 2023 · The European wildcat is a genetically distinct subspecies of the wildcat family. With an average body length of 60 to 90 centimeters and a bushy tail, it possesses a sturdy build suitable for survival in various habitats.
With a long, thick coat, a broad head, and a comparatively flat face, the European wildcat has the appearance of a large, powerful wild cat. (Ironically, it could also be mistaken for a large domestic tabby cat!).
The nominate subspecies, the European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris), inhabits forested regions from Scotland through continental Europe to western Asia. It is similar to the domestic cat but has longer legs, a larger, flatter head, and a full, relatively short tail ending in a rounded (not pointed) tip.
