What is another word for wildcat well?
Pronunciation: [wˈa͡ɪldkat wˈɛl] (IPA) 
A "wildcat well" is a term used in the oil drilling industry to describe a well that is drilled in an area where there is little or no existing oil production. Emphasis is given to exploration and the discovery of new oil reserves, which makes the operation a high-risk venture. Synonyms for this term include "exploration well," "prospecting well," and "wildcat drilling." The objective is to find new oil and gas reserves, and these wells are typically located in remote areas, where geological surveys are being carried out to identify potential drilling sites. While the risk is high, the reward can be substantial, as drilling a "wildcat well" can lead to the discovery of new oil regions.
