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Scotland's Mystery Cat: Big Cat or Hybrid?
28 Aug
Summary
- A mysterious feline, larger than a domestic cat, has been filmed near a Scottish trout fishery.
- The creature's size is compared to a Labrador, sparking debate about its identity.
- Experts suggest it may have wildcat ancestry or be a hybrid, but confirmation is pending.
A mysterious feline, described as being larger than a normal cat and comparable in size to a Labrador, has been filmed by its owner at Ledyatt Trout Fishery near Lundie, Scotland. This striking creature has been a regular sight for the past 18 months, prompting a significant online discussion about its identity.
The 13-second video clip has garnered over a million views, with viewers debating whether the animal is a wild cat, a hybrid, or a domestic breed. David Duff, the fishery owner, described the feline as rusty brown with thin black stripes and defined tail rings.
Experts from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland have suggested the animal may have wildcat ancestry and could be a hybrid, given its location. However, they stress that without more conclusive evidence, such as additional footage or genetic analysis, its exact identity remains unconfirmed.
Duff has observed the elusive animal hunting rabbits and climbing trees approximately 20 times over the 18 months he has resided there. He views the presence of this large predator as an indicator of a pristine environment, noting it as a 'cherry on the cake' for the fishery.
