Conservationists trying to save the Scottish wildcat from extinction have urged people to report sightings of feral cats.

The wildcat is one of the world's most endangered animals and experts believe there could be fewer than 300 pure-breeds left.

Feral cats, which interbreed with full-blooded wildcats and spread diseases, are one of the biggest threats to the species.

Last year, Scottish Wildcat Action (SWA) launched a scheme to catch and neuter feral cats in an attempt to reduce the danger they pose.

An SWA spokesman said: "We've been very grateful to everyone who has submitted sightings of cats, both through the Mammal Tracker app and our website.

"However, we are desperate for more feral cat sightings in the wildcat priority areas.

"The Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return programme has been hugely successful thanks to our trail camera technology and local tip-offs.

"However, it's nearing the end of the season and local knowledge can help us neuter and vaccinate more feral cats before the wildcat breeding season begins again."

The Scottish Government-backed neutering programme has proven controversial.

Wildcat Haven, a company which sells plots of land used for wildcat conservation, has accused the SWA of putting newborn wildcat kittens at risk.

SWA, which is a project led by Scottish Natural Heritage, says it avoids trapping in areas where breeding is taking place.

Feral cat sightings can be reported on Scottish Wildcat Action's website.