Glorious media day showcases estate’s conservation successes 

West Glenalmond Estate near Crieff hosted a media day with Scottish Land & Estates last week to demonstrate how modern grouse moor management delivers biodiversity gains alongside sporting tradition on the Glorious Twelfth.

Media and guests attend to see biodiversity in action

The Perthshire estate welcomed the BBC and STV, as well as shooting parties including Marc Newton of John Rigby & Co. Headkeeper Davie Campbell acknowledged prospects remain “patchy” following “extremely poor breeding” caused by last year’s harsh weather but emphasised the estate’s year-round habitat work supporting red-listed species including lapwing, greenfinch, and golden plover.

Year-round habitat work supports wildlife

“Our work isn’t just about grouse; it’s about creating the right conditions for all kinds of wildlife to thrive, from waders and songbirds to hares and butterflies,” said Campbell. “Seeing healthy grouse stocks alongside such a rich mix of other species is what makes it worthwhile.”

Compliance with Scotland’s new licensing system

The event showcased how estates operate under Scotland’s new licensing system, now in its second year. From January 2026, muirburn will also require licensing, despite being recognised by Scottish Fire & Rescue as vital wildfire prevention.

Sporting estates support rural employment

Local supplier Ali Troup of Bushwear, whose 15 staff depend on estate spending, warned: “When there’s a good grouse season, rural businesses have confidence to invest for the future.” The day highlighted how sporting estates underpin employment across Scotland’s remote communities as parties from the UK and overseas prepare for the season ahead.

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