Evaluating Habitat Use and Detection Probability of the European Wildcat (Felis Silvestris): A Camera Trapping Study in Southern Italy

A camera trapping study in the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park (Southern Italy) revealed that the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) strongly prefers forested habitats, even within shrub-dominated landscapes. Researchers found that wildcats were 2.7 times more likely to use sites with higher forest cover, contradicting some earlier studies and underscoring the importance of preserving residual forests for their conservation. The study also demonstrated that using scent lures significantly increased detection probability (from 8.4% to much higher levels), improving survey efficiency and reducing uncertainty in habitat use estimates. Conducted between 2008-2010, this work provides critical insights into the species' distribution and ecological needs in Mediterranean regions.

Fusillo Romina, & Marcelli Manlio. (2021). EVALUATING HABITAT USE AND DETECTION PROBABILITY OF THE EUROPEAN WILDCAT (FELIS SILVESTRIS): A CAMERA TRAPPING STUDY IN SOUTHERN ITALY. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.5946976