Strong spatial segregation between wildcats and domestic cats may explain low hybridization rates on the Iberian Peninsula

摘要: The European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) is an endangered felid impacted by genetic introgression with the domestic cat catus). problem of hybridization has had different effects in areas. In non-Mediterranean regions pure forms wildcats became almost extinct, while Mediterranean a rare phenomenon. study potential factors that prevent gene flow areas lower may be key to conservation. We studied population size and spatial segregation cats typical area ancient sympatry, where no evidence been detected studies. Camera trapping wild-living walking surveys stray villages were used for capture-recapture estimations abundance segregation. Results showed (i) low density apparent presence putative hybrids; (ii) very feral spite widespread large sources inhabiting villages; (iii) strong between domestic/feral cats; (iv) relationship cats. Hence, limited their ability become integrated into local habitat wildcats. Ecological barriers (habitat preferences, food limitations, intra-specific intra-guild competition, predation) explain severe divergences impact observed at biogeographic level. This direct effect on conservation strategies (i.e., control cats).