MEMBERS’ RECORD SUPPORT FOR HIGHLAND TIGER PROJECT 

ROYAL Dornoch members are proud of the iconic wildcat which features on the coat of arms. 

A range of members-only clothing bearing the ancient crest of the Earls of Sutherland continues to support steps being taken to reintroduce the native “Highland Tiger” species to the wild. 

A record £6000 donation will take the total gifted to the Saving Wildcats charity up towards the £12,000 mark. 

The third year of the successful programme gets under way in June, with nearly 20 wildcats likely to be released into the wild. 

“The Saving Wildcats project has had a long relationship with Royal Dornoch and we are incredibly grateful for their ongoing contributions to wildcat recovery and conservation efforts in Scotland.,” said David Barclay, Saving Wildcats’ ex-situ conservation manager. 

“The wildcat features on the famous Royal Dornoch crest, highlighting the historical and cultural connection of the club with this iconic species. 

“With more wildcat releases planned for 2025 and the first wild births recorded in 2024, the future of the species looks bright.  

“But there is still a long road ahead. Support from Royal Dornoch will continue to play a vital role in restoring this elusive native cat to Scotland’s landscapes.” 

Brad Smith, retail manager at Royal Dornoch said: “Our members-only range is always very popular and we are delighted that our support is helping with the ambitious wildcat recovery programme.” 

The first release of nine captive bred wildcats into the Cairngorms National Park proved very encouraging and kittens continue to be nurtured at the breeding for release centre at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Highland Wildlife Park near Aviemore.