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A Scottish wildcat watching through dark foliage at Perthshire Zoo — the species is this hard to see in the wild

Conservation and species protection

Fewer than 350 Scottish wildcats left in the wild.

A Scottish wildcat sitting in the open on a fallen log at Perthshire Zoo

Flagship project · 01

The Scottish Wildcat Project

Critically Endangered in Scotland

One of the UK’s most threatened mammals — and one of our most important residents. Our Scottish Wildcat Project gives wildcats a natural home, with viewing hides, education, and work toward releasing wildcats back into the wild. By providing expert care and sharing their story, we help visitors understand the fight to keep this species alive.

Help protect them
A red squirrel recovering among the trees

Flagship project · 02

Scotland’s first Red Squirrel Hospital

Native species · rescue and release

Red squirrels are one of the UK’s most threatened mammals, and they urgently need safe spaces for rehabilitation and recovery. Our hospital provides specialist care for injured, orphaned or displaced red squirrels, giving them the best possible chance of returning to the wild. It’s a major step forward for Scotland’s natural heritage — and it’s only possible thanks to the support of our community. Next, we’re working toward a Red Squirrel Walkthrough, an immersive habitat for learning about these iconic animals up close.

Support this project

Species we protect

On the IUCN Red List — and in our care

We care for several species listed as Vulnerable or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Their presence helps us raise awareness and support conservation efforts worldwide.

  1. Conservation status: Vulnerable

    Asian Short-clawed Otter

    Threatened by habitat loss and illegal trade.

  2. Conservation status: Critically Endangered

    Scottish Wildcat

    One of the UK’s most threatened mammals.

  3. Conservation status: Vulnerable

    White-fronted Brown Lemur

    Facing rapid habitat loss in Madagascar.

  4. Conservation status: Critically Endangered

    Black-and-white Ruffed Lemur

    Among the world’s most threatened primates.

A laughing kookaburra among greenery — one of the birds visitors meet at keeper talks

Education that inspires action

Conservation begins with understanding

Through school visits, keeper talks, hands-on experiences and family learning, we help people of all ages connect with nature and discover how they can make a difference.

Every child who leaves inspired, every family who learns something new, and every visitor who chooses to support our work strengthens the future of wildlife.

Where we’re heading next

  • Expand endangered species habitats
  • Develop new education programmes
  • Strengthen partnerships with conservation organisations
  • Increase our impact in Scottish native species protection

You’ll also meet our ambassador species

These animals help us teach visitors about ecosystems, adaptation and biodiversity:

  • Macaws
  • Galahs
  • Squirrel monkeys
  • Eurasian eagle owls
  • Bengal owls
  • Kookaburras
  • Bennett’s wallabies
  • Barn owls

Help protect these species

Their future depends on what we do together.

Whether we are caring for endangered species, supporting native wildlife, or educating the next generation, our mission is the same — and every gift, visit and membership drives it forward.

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