Wildlife

Wild Capercaillie Welfare and Conservation

Capercaillie are Scotland's most endangered bird, dependent on ancient Caledonian pine forest and facing welfare threats from disturbance, predation and climate change.

Key Facts

The UK capercaillie population has declined to an estimated 540-1,100 birds in Scotland
Capercaillie require large areas of old-growth Caledonian pinewood with diverse understory
Disturbance at lekking sites and during breeding season causes significant welfare impacts
Predator management of foxes and crows is used in some areas to reduce nest failure
Climate change is increasing tick burden and louping ill risk for capercaillie chicks

Welfare Considerations

Capercaillie welfare and conservation are inseparable at population scale. Strict disturbance controls, habitat restoration and predator management support both individual birds and species survival.

What You Can Do

Never approach capercaillie lek sites or nesting areas, particularly in spring
Support RSPB Scotland and other organisations restoring Caledonian pine forest habitat
Follow Forest and Land Scotland access guidance in capercaillie conservation areas