In Scotland, an unusual new plan is being used to tempt predators away from the eggs and chicks of the critically endangered capercaillie. Will it be enough to save this magnificent bird?

In the heart of Abernethy Forest, Jack Bamber, a dedicated researcher and conservationist, strategically deposits deer meat to attract local predators away from vulnerable capercaillie chicks. This technique, known as “diversionary feeding,” is aimed at mitigating predator pressure on Scotland’s dwindling capercaillie population—a species that has become critically endangered, with only 532 individuals counted in 2021-2022.

Capercaillie, the largest species of grouse worldwide, are renowned for the elaborate displays, or “leks,” performed by males to court females. However, these secretive birds are intolerant of disturbances, which further complicates conservation efforts. Bamber’s project aligns with broader conservation initiatives in Scotland that aim to preserve these unique birds without disrupting protected species, such as pine martens and badgers, which are also natural predators of the capercaillie.

The Cairngorms Capercaillie Project, led by Carolyn Robertson, focuses on educating residents and visitors on the necessity of avoiding sensitive capercaillie habitats, particularly during the breeding season. The project’s outreach has resulted in local communities adopting a sense of responsibility toward protecting the capercaillie, especially by controlling dog access. Studies indicate that capercaillie experience heightened stress and tend to avoid heavily trafficked paths, underlining the importance of minimizing human and pet disturbances.

Efforts have extended to mountain bikers and photographers, groups known to potentially disrupt these birds. The “Lek it be” campaign, for instance, encourages photographers to refrain from approaching leks without proper licensure, as a single disruption could disband a lek permanently. The campaign has been well-received, particularly among bird enthusiasts, emphasizing the growing community support for the species.

The plight of the capercaillie in Scotland represents a complex conservation challenge, with habitat fragmentation, human activity, and predator pressure all contributing to their alarming population decline. Despite previous reintroduction efforts that successfully bolstered their numbers by the 1970s, capercaillie populations have once again entered a critical period of vulnerability.