Wildcat Suitability Mapping
DBRC was contracted by Devon Wildlife Trust to produce potential species distribution maps over the summer of 2024 as part of the wider project studying the feasibility of a wildcat reintroduction in Devon.
Utilising our technical skills and habitat data, we produced a set of maps showing potentially suitable habitat for wildcats in Devon. In order to account for variances in datasets, we produced several versions utilising different data to evaluate several scenarios.
Once we had identified various areas within Devon that have potentially suitable habitat for a wildcat population, we collated and assessed a variety of additional datasets to further assess the suitability of each core area. From protected areas and rare bird nesting site to estimated domestic cat density and human populations, we produced maps showing potential hazards to a wildcat reintroduction to assist with the feasibility study.
We are continually working to improve our data holdings to further assist with projects like this.
