‘We are hopeful’: small signs of recovery for Scotland’s rare capercaillie bird

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Patrick BarkhamFebruary 13, 2026 at 07:00 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Scotland's endangered capercaillie bird population is showing small signs of recovery after decades of decline. A recent survey in 2025 at RSPB Abernethy recorded a 50% increase in males, rising from 20 in 2020 to 30. This is a positive development for the species, whose numbers have dwindled to just 532 in the wild due to habitat loss, predation, human disturbance, and other factors. Conservation efforts at RSPB Abernethy, including using remote-controlled mowers to improve blaeberry growth and virtual fences for targeted grazing, are credited with improving habitat quality. While the capercaillie's future remains uncertain, conservationists are hopeful that these techniques can support the bird's recovery across Scotland.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Britain 60% Scottish Highlands 70% Richard Mason 70% Scotland ×390% RSPB Abernethy ×590%

Keywords

capercaillie 100% endangered birds 80% population recovery 70% conservation 70% rspb abernethy 70% habitat quality 60% lekking 60% scottish highlands 50% forest habitat 50%