| Non-native Cat Information |
Non-native Cat Sightings |
The Scottish Big Cat Trust
 An introduction to the concept of exotic free-living non-native cats in the UK, and the Scottish Big Cat Trust: who we are, what we do, and why we do it |
Non-native Cat Sightings by year
This is a database of non-native Cat Sightings in Scotland from 1926 - 2004. The data is presented on a yearly basis and the date, location, description of the animal, its activity, and any further information are included. |
Cat identification profiles and guides
Profiles of the exotic cat species found or potentially present in Scotland, and information of cats' eyes, the indetification of felids by their vocalisations, plus tracks, trails signs, skulls etc
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Non-native Cat Sightings by County
This database analyses exotic felid sightings by area, with links to all known reports, detailed local sightings maps, and a Scotland-wide analysis and map of sightings.
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Cat species and unusual cats
Felid species and subspecies are described, as are unusual cats such as hybrids and colour variations.
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Exotic Cat escapes and captures
Many sightings of "big cats" turn out to be cases of mistaken identity and there have also been a number of hoaxes. However, there are a number of documented cases of felid escapes and captures in the UK. We list and describe a number of them here. |
Cats in captivity
With a new emphasis on conservation and controlled breeding programmes rather than entertainment for the public, fewer species of felid are kept in captivity than before. This section is a guide to where to see these cats in Scotland. |
The Evidence
Examples of photo, video and other evidence concerning non-native cats is examined and commented upon. The vast majority of evidence appears to be genuine mistaken identity and there have been several deliberate hoaxes. However, there is a significant amount of evidence pointing to the presence of exotic felids in Scotland and other parts of the UK. |
Maneaters and Myths
Although cats, like any wild - or even domestic- animal - can be dangerous and must be treated with great respect, most cats will attempt to avoid humans except when cornered. It must be realised that any danger is relative and even bee stings can be fatal. If we were really serious about protecting our children, we would ban cigarettes and motor cars tomorrow. This section reports on cat attacks throught the globe and discusses the alleged attacks in the UK. |
Interactive Section
Here you may report your sighting of a non-native cat to the Scottish Big Cat Trust. You can also vote in the polls, sign the guestbook, and join the UK's premier discussion group on exotic felids, non-native cats. |
Research and Education
Education and research are extremely important so that the public can learn the truth about exotic felids as opposed to the rumours and misinformation that circulates concerning them.
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Other Cat Sites
There are numerous sites concerning cats on the web and we include links to some of the most interesting ones. The presence of a link does not imply a formal recommendation by the Scottish Big Cat Trust.
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The Official Reaction
The government does not accept that exotic cats are living and breeding in the UK. However annoying this may be to certain individuals, this is actually an intelligent policy. If the government were to admit that these animals were present, given the scaremongering tactics of certain organisations, it is almost certain that there would be panic and calls for them to be exterminated.
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Acknowledgements
This web site exists because of the hard work and help of literally hundreds of people. We attempt to thank a few of them.
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The Scottish Big Cat Trust is a member of the 