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Capercaillie Decline Sub-menu: | Introduction | History | Causes | Action |
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Deer fences, particularly where they are situated within woodlands, have historically been a big risk to Capercaillie. Through the project over ?? Km of deer fences have been marked and ?? Km of deer fences have been removed. |
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Once they reach a certain age and structure, forestry plantations loose much of their value to Capercaillie. Variable density thinning is carried out within these areas and helps to provide good brood rearing habitat. |
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Long rank heather can provide cover for Capercaillie chicks, but where this exists in large uninterrupted areas, it can prevent blueberry and other important food plants from growing, as well as restricting the birds movement.
Heather can be treated in a number of ways including swiping using heavy machinery
or brush-cutters and by using controlled burning.
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Predation can dramatically reduce the success of Capercaillie
populations. High populations of predator species, such as crows and foxes, in key Capercaillie areas can dramatically reduce the chances of Capercaillie chicks surviving to maturity.
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Signs and leaflets are used to help inform people of how their actions can affect the wildlife in the woodlands. At key times of year, extra information signs and some special wardens are used to help with this. |
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The provision for good Capercaillie habitat is very important for the success of the project and the survival of the species in Scotland. Special conservation management techniques are used throughout the project.
Where there is not enough ground cover piles of brash have
been created to provide additional cover. We have also
been working to retain some areas of strategic windblown
trees, which can provide very good cover and perching sites
for capercaillie.
In some areas, planting of native species has been used to improve the habitat for Capercaillie.
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There are a number of groups involved with the project, these fulfil a range of roles and involve experts in many fields.
Communication between specialists involved in the project
monitoring and other capercaillie research, those who own or are
involved in managing capercaillie woods and a range of other
interested parties is essential for the long term success of
capercaillie in Scotland. |
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