The critical state of capercaillie populations and welfare challenges in Scottish Caledonian forest.
Capercaillie welfare is at a critical threshold — with so few birds remaining, disturbance of individuals has population-level welfare consequences. Lekking males disturbed by walkers in March-May abandon territories, reducing breeding success. Welfare-informed access management closes key capercaillie areas during breeding season and educates visitors. Predation management reduces nest failure and chick mortality directly.