Fragmentation and low density as major conservation challenges for the southernmost populations of the European wildcat

Abstract

Knowledge of population dynamics of threatened species in the wild is key to effective conservation actions. However, at present, there are many examples of endangered animals for which their current situation is unknown, and not just in remote areas and less developed countries. We have explored this topic by studying the paradigmatic case of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris), an endangered small carnivore whose status has been subjectively established on the basis of non-systematic approaches and opportunistic records. Little is known about its demographic situation, prompting the need for information to improve conservation measures. However, the secretive behaviour of felines along with its low density in natural conditions have prevented the gathering of sufficient data. We developed a field sampling strategy for one of the largest populations (Andalusia, South Spain, 87,268 km 2), based on a logistically viable systematic non-intrusive survey by camera-trapping. This study offers the first large-scale estimation for any European wildcat population, based on analytical approaches applied on Species Distribution Models. A hierarchical approach based on a Maxent model for distribution estimation was used, along with Generalised Linear Models for density estimation from explicit spatial capture-recapture data. Our results show that the distribution range is smaller and more highly fragmented than previously assumed. The overall estimated density was very low (0.069 ±0.0019 wildcats/km 2) and the protected areas network seems to be insufficient to cover a significant part of the population or a viable nucleus in demographic terms. Indeed, the most important areas remain unprotected. Our main recommendations are to improve the protected area network and/or vigilance programs in hunting estates, in addition to studying and improving connectivity between the main population patches.

Do all roads lead to resistance? State road density is the main impediment to gene flow in a flagship species inhabiting a severely fragmented anthropogenic landscape

“…As it is typical for many conservation programs, efforts in Germany often focus on charismatic flagship species to generate enough public interest, political support, and financial contributions to make conservation happen on the ground (Caro, 2010). One such species is the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), which serves as a highly protected flagship and umbrella species for nature conservation and land-use planning in many European countries (Gil-Sanchez et al, 2020;Mattucci et al, 2016;Say et al, 2012). Its habitat use and requirements are well-studied (Götz et al, 2018;Jerosch et al, 2018;Klar et al, 2008), and several studies already highlighted the importance of functionally connected habitats for the wildcat (Hupe & Simon, 2007;Klar et al, 2012;Mattucci et al, 2016).…”

First Description of Sarcoptic Mange in a Free-Ranging European Wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) from Spain

“…The European wildcat population across its range faces several threats to its long-term survival due to habitat loss, roadkill, hybridization with its domestic counterpart and disease transmission [ 43 , 44 , 45 ]. In the Mediterranean Iberian Peninsula, other threats include the loss of its main prey, the European wild rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, and the low density and fragmentation of its populations [ 9 , 46 , 47 ]. Under this scenario of silent extinction, understanding the impact of diseases such as sarcoptic mange is paramount, since the introduction of parasites to naïve host populations can result in drastic population declines and localized extinctions [ 48 , 49 ].…”

“…The European wildcat ( Felis silvestris silvestris ) remains a widely distributed felid species in Europe, although it is assumed to be an endangered taxa in most of the countries in which it lives [ 8 ]. The demographic situation of the southernmost population of the species in the Iberian Peninsula is somewhat critical, primarily due to low density and habitat fragmentation [ 9 ]. Under these circumstances, the species may benefit from health surveillance to detect disease threats for the populations.…”

Wildcat population density in NE Portugal: A regional stronghold for a nationally threatened felid

“…The loss of its main prey in the Mediterranean region—the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (Gil‐Sanchez, Valenzuela, & Sanchez, 1999)—adds to the common threats affecting European wildcats across its range as a major player in the decline of the Iberian metapopulation of this small felid (Gil‐Sánchez et al, 2020; Lozano et al, 2003). The low densities observed across the Mediterranean region of Iberia (0.038–0.069 wildcat/km 2 ; Ferreras et al, submitted; Gil‐Sánchez et al, 2020) further support that European wildcats might be under serious threat. In Portugal, the European wildcat is listed as “Vulnerable” due to a suspected population decline ≥30% over 24 years (Cabral et al, 2005).…”