Species protection for the European wildcat
Felis silvestris
The European wildcat is strictly protected under Annex IV of the FFH Directive and depends on large, contiguous forests. For interventions in woodland habitats and their connectivity, we plan and deliver the appropriate CEF and FCS measures under the BNatSchG.
The European wildcat at a glance
- Habitat: Large, continuous and undisturbed deciduous and mixed woodland, preferably old oak and beech stands with deadwood, windthrow and structurally rich woodland edges
- Red List: Germany threatened, Bavaria endangered
- Protection status: Strictly protected under § 44 BNatSchG, Annex IV of the FFH Directive
- Conservation status: Continental region unfavourable to inadequate
- Typical measure: Reconnection of woodland habitats via green bridges and corridors, plus retention of root plates and brash piles as resting and breeding places
Typical protective measures for the European wildcat
Green bridges and crossing structures
Reconnecting woodland areas that have been fragmented by roads and railway lines. Wide green bridges and crossing structures reduce traffic mortality and connect separated sub-populations. As an FCS measure, they secure genetic exchange between woodland complexes.
Woodland corridors and hedgerow networks
Creating strips of woody vegetation, hedgerows and stepping-stone habitats between isolated pockets of woodland. These linear guide structures enable the roaming wildcat to cross open agricultural land and strengthen the habitat network beyond the target species.
Preserving resting and denning sites
Retaining and creating upturned root plates, brushwood and deadwood piles, and preserving tree cavities as hiding places and denning sites. As an advance CEF measure, these secure the function of affected breeding sites and resting places in the vicinity of the intervention.
Structurally rich woodland edges and margins
Developing layered woodland edges, retaining windthrow areas and extensively managed field margins. This improves the foraging habitat for small mammals and increases cover within the wildcat's home range.
Low-disturbance times and areas
Visitor management and concentrating recreational use, with time restrictions on works during the denning and rearing period where necessary. This avoids disturbance at sensitive rearing sites.
The European wildcat in these natural regions
All about the European wildcat
Request protective measures for the European wildcat
We plan and deliver the right CEF or FCS measure for the European wildcat in your project.