BERGHEIM, Germany — Earlier this month, a passerby discovered a small, seemingly abandoned kitten on a remote country road in Bergheim and took her home. However, the feline’s unusual behavior soon revealed a surprising truth—she was no ordinary house cat.
After noticing the kitten’s feisty temperament and refusal to eat, the rescuer brought her to the Bergheim Animal Shelter for evaluation. Shelter staff quickly recognized that the animal was not a domestic cat but a European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris), a protected species native to the region.
“The specific characteristics and behavior indicated that this was a wild cat,” a spokesperson for Retscheider Hof Wildlife Center told The Dodo. “We were contacted immediately for specialized care.”
A Case of Mistaken Identity
European wildcats closely resemble domestic cats, making them easy to misidentify. The young wildcat, now under the care of Retscheider Hof, is being raised alongside another orphaned wildcat kitten. Both will be released into the wild once they are mature enough to survive on their own.
“We are working hard to provide the support they need,” the spokesperson said. “Every step of their progress is followed with enthusiasm and hope.”
A Reminder to Observe Before Rescuing
The incident highlights a common issue: well-meaning individuals sometimes “rescue” wild animals, mistaking them for lost pets. Wildlife experts urge caution in such situations.
“This case reminds us how important it is to observe carefully before intervening,” the Retscheider Hof spokesperson added.
The young wildcat is now thriving under professional care, with plans for her eventual return to the wild.
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