The capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) is the UK's largest grouse species and one of its most endangered birds. Fewer than 500 individuals survive in Scotlandâa population so small that local extinction is a genuine near-term risk. Conservation and welfare are inseparable for a species at this level of precarity.
Capercaillie are birds of old-growth Caledonian pinewoodâa habitat type that covers only a fraction of its former range. Males (up to 4.5 kg) display spectacularly at leks in spring; females are cryptically patterned and nest on the ground. They feed primarily on pine needles in winter and blaeberry/insects in summer. Their specialized habitat requirements make them highly sensitive to forest management decisions.
Fence collisions: Capercaillie fly fast and low through forest and frequently strike deer fences. Fence marking or removal is a critical interventionâsome estimates suggest fence collision is the leading mortality cause. Predation: Crow, fox, and pine marten predation of nests and chicks limits breeding success. Disturbance: Human disturbance during breeding season (walkers, dogs, cyclists) can cause nest desertion. Habitat loss: Loss of old-growth pinewood structure reduces food availability and nesting cover. Climate change: Wet springs reduce chick survival through hypothermia and reduced invertebrate availability.
RSPB and Scottish Forestry work with landowners on: fence marking and removal, predator management, habitat management (deer fencing to allow regeneration, blaeberry restoration), access restriction during breeding season, and habitat connectivity. Supplementary feeding is trialed in harsh winters.
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