Ginger cats accompanied the Vikings as they invaded Britain.
Ginger cats invaded Britain with the Vikings
Experts say that the flame-haired felines were the preferred pet for the Scandinavian warriors as they rampaged across Europe and suspect that this is the reason why they are the most confident moggies in modern times.
Roger Tabor, a biologist and cat behaviour expert, told BBC News: "York, once a Viking stronghold, still has a higher population of ginger cats than London.
"Vikings may just have liked the distinctive fur. But I would suggest that the perceived friendly, less-fearful nature of the ginger cat could by why it boldly strolled onto their boats."
Tabor also suggested that the ginger cats possess something of a "Viking disposition" as they can be aggressive towards other felines.
He said: "Gingers cats themselves could be said to have a Viking disposition - friendly to people they get on with but fierce with opponent tom cats."
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