This is good news for biodiversity: forest cat population is in better shape than before!
Although it almost became extinct a few decades ago, the forest cat is now making a comeback, thanks to the various forestry initiatives put in place to protect it. In Switzerland, the population has been monitored and counted: from a few hundred in 2010 to over 1,000 individuals today, and the trend is upwards. But what explains this comeback?
According to biologists, mixed forests with continuous cover and layered edges are ideal for the return and development of forest cat populations. These foresters are rich in hiding places, piles of branches and tree cavities where they can take refuge and raise kittens where forest cats are particularly happy. What’s more, the layered forest edges and the diversity of small mammals they generate provide a regular source of food. Monospecific forests, on the other hand, offer few of the necessary conditions for the species to establish itself, and can even be fatal when they contain trellis fences, which are death traps for many cats.
The behaviour of forest users has also changed. With greater awareness, walkers are being asked to stay on the paths and keep their dogs on a lead, thus guaranteeing the peace and quiet of the forest cats. Forests cats are naturally very shy, so it is quite rare to see them. Although kittens seem more curious and inclined to meet humans, it is important not to touch them, or worse, take them home. Their mother is probably not far away and, if in doubt, it is better to contact the forest ranger than to intervene yourself.