Capercaillie on the brink but black grouse rallies

Only 153 male capercaillies have been recorded at lekking sites this year, down from 168 in the 2023 breeding season. The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) reports the falling numbers as discord grows over predator control. 

It is thought there are now about 500 capercaillies in the wild, with the species in danger of extinction in Scotland. Abundant predators such as foxes and crows are thought to be impacting breeding success, as are rising populations of protected pine marten, badgers and goshawks. NatureScot has indicated it will release an emergency action plan as soon as possible. 

Chris Donald, NatureScot’s head of operations for Central Highlands, said: “There’s no doubt that the capercaillie is extremely vulnerable, and that the future of the species is at risk. Along with our partners in the Cairngorms National Park Authority, we will shortly be publishing an emergency plan to set out urgent measures to help save the species.” 

But it’s not all bad news; the closely related and critically endangered black grouse reached their highest numbers in Scotland for 17 years, thanks in part to rewilding efforts. Some 405 black grouse lekking sites have been recorded this year, up from 378 in 2021 and 250 in 2007.