Get involved
Seen a wildcat?
Tell us.
People who live, work or walk in Paredes de Coura see what our cameras miss. Every validated record goes on the species map.
Report
Record an
observation.
You can report a live animal, an old photo, a road-killed animal or signs such as tracks and scats. You do not need to be sure it was a wildcat: the team checks every record.
Data are used only for the study. Exact locations are never published and your contact details are not shared.
Using iNaturalist?
You can also record your observation on Biodiversity4All, the Portuguese iNaturalist network. Wildcat locations are hidden by default.
Sightings
Where it has been seen.
Each 2 × 2 km square shows wildcat records validated by the team. To protect the animals, we never show exact locations.
1 record 2 to 4 5 or more
Found a road-killed animal?
- Do not touch it without gloves.
- Photograph it from the side with the tail visible, and note the exact place.
- Send us the record using the form above. A dead animal can still give us a valuable genetic sample.
- If the animal is injured, call the GNR environmental helpline (SOS Ambiente e Território): 808 200 520.
Care
A cared-for cat
protects the wildcat.
When domestic cats breed with wildcats, hybrids are born. Within a few generations the wild species loses its identity.
- Neutering prevents crossbreeding and reduces the number of stray cats in villages.
- Vaccinating protects your cat and stops diseases spreading to wildlife.
- Microchipping is compulsory in Portugal and helps lost cats find their way home.
Do you feed a colony of street cats? Associação Animais de Rua runs neutering campaigns with local councils. Get in touch and we will put you in contact.
Schools
Bringing the wildcat
into the classroom.
During the 2026-2027 school year we are visiting schools and parish councils in Paredes de Coura with sessions on wildcats, camera trapping and genetics.
Classes can also follow one of our stations and help identify the animals in the camera photos. Interested teachers and parishes can write to goncalo.jesus@ulusofona.pt.
