The comment that they wouldn’t be contacting you unless they knew something was there, or words to that effect, is also not necessarily true. A company is aware of the risks involved in a “wildcat” area. The fact that it is considered wildcat makes it a much riskier venture.
Definition of Wildcat:
adj. - Risky or unsound, especially financially
v. - To prospect for oil, or other minerals in an area not known to be productive.