New documentary chronicles the revival of wildcats in the Cairngorms National Park

A new two-part documentary, Wildcats: Cait ann an Cunnart, is set to be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Wednesday 8 January, chronicling the progress of Saving Wildcats - a groundbreaking conservation partnership project aiming to prevent the extinction of wildcats in Scotland by breeding and releasing them into the wild.

The two-part series follows the journey of the team behind Saving Wildcats, guiding viewers through their efforts to release captive bred wildcats from a specialised breeding for release centre, located at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Highland Wildlife Park in the Cairngorms National Park. As well as being selected and encouraged to breed, everything possible is done to prepare the animals for life in the wild, before they are released in locations across the Cairngorms Connect Partnership Area.

Throughout the course of the docu-series, which covers the first year of releases in 2023, the wildcats face numerous challenges - from adjusting to the rugged terrain to dealing with the unpredictable forces of nature. However, the documentary also reveals the rewarding moments of success as they learn to survive and thrive on their own.

Saving Wildcats project lead, Dr Helen Senn, said: “This new film really brings to life some of the trials and tribulations of trying to bring back a species from the brink of extinction. It made me realise just how much has been achieved in a relatively short period of time but also how much work remains to be done if we are to secure a long-term future for one of Scotland’s most beautiful, iconic and amazing animals.”

Scott Brown, director at Midas Media, which produced Wildcats: Cait ann an Cunnart, added: “Making this film for BBC ALBA has been a truly eye-opening experience. It’s a rare privilege to witness the incredible efforts of the Saving Wildcats team, who are not only fighting to save a species but also showing us how passion, science, and conservation can make a real difference. This documentary highlights the resilience of the Scottish wildcat and the ongoing journey to ensure it thrives for generations to come.”

Part one of Wildcats: Cait ann an Cunnart is set to be broadcast in Gaelic with English subtitles, on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer @ 21:00 on Wednesday 8 January, with part two set to air the following week, on Wednesday 15 January. Watch live or on demand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0026r4q

Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “This inspiring series offers BBC ALBA viewers an intimate look at a pivotal chapter in Scotland’s natural history, reflecting the role we can play in sharing the incredible stories on our doorstep. It’s amazing to see the dedication of the team working to save this iconic species and bring it back to the Scottish Highlands, highlighting what’s possible when we come together to protect our wildlife.”

Viewers who are inspired by the journey of wildcats into the wild can get involved and help by sponsoring a wildcat at savingwildcats.org.uk/sponsor