A new study exploring the secretive lives of feral and free-roaming cats in Wales could shed light on wildcats’ return to the country.

Scientists at Aberystwyth University, Queen’s University Belfast, and Vincent Wildlife Trust are investigating the role that elusive free-roaming cats may play in the transmission of diseases to humans and other animals.

The study will inform ongoing work by Vincent Wildlife Trust to investigate the feasibility of restoring the European wildcat to areas it used to inhabit in Wales.