Wildlife

Wild Capercaillie: Disturbance, Fencing, and Welfare in Scotland

Scotland's capercaillie population is critically endangered, with disturbance and fence collision being major welfare and conservation threats.

Key Facts

Scotland's capercaillie population is estimated at under 1,000 birds
Capercaillie are highly sensitive to human disturbance during breeding season
Deer fences cause significant mortality from collision - marking and removal reduce deaths
Core capercaillie woodland requires a 500m buffer zone from disturbance in winter

Welfare Considerations

Fence collision causes acute injury and death. Disturbance during lek and breeding causes abandonment and breeding failure. Both welfare impacts are addressable through marking fences, restricting access, and habitat management.

What You Can Do

Respect capercaillie buffer zones - stay on paths and use recommended viewing sites
Support Cairngorms Connect and RSPB capercaillie conservation programmes
Advocate for removal or marking of deer fences in core capercaillie woodland