The striking Scottish bird is one of the most recognisable
In the ancient woodlands of the Highlands of Scotland, you might be lucky enough to come across one of the country's most recognisable birds. The capercaillie is a large grouse with the male having striking black, brown and green plumage and red-ridged eyes.
Shy and elusive they can be found foraging on forest floors or in low-lying branches of trees eating berries and shrubs. So brave are these birds when they are roused, they will happily challenge creatures four or five times their size – including any human who crosses their path. Fanning their tale feathers behind them, they will charge across forest floors ready to fight.Vicious battles can often erupt between two rivals with some of the birds often being badly injured in these fights for mating rights. The smaller brown females will then flock to the winner of these bouts to breed.
Threats to their survival include colder weather, which affects the fitness of the females and survival rates of the chicks, while fragmented habitats are also harming their ability to breed.Nick Wilkinson, conservation scientist at RSPB Scotland, said: "Previous surveys have seen numbers fluctuating between around 1,000 and 2,000 birds so it's really worrying that the results from last winter indicate there are only an estimated 542 individuals remaining now.
Danmark Seneste Nyt, Danmark Overskrifter
Similar News:Du kan også læse nyheder, der ligner denne, som vi har indsamlet fra andre nyhedskilder.
Capercaillie at real risk of extinction, survey findsOnly 542 of the birds are estimated to be left in Scotland - half the population six years ago.
Læs mere »
UK's economic turmoil could persuade voters that Scottish independence is less of a riskThe plummeting pound is being touted by senior SNP figures as evidence that Scots cannot be certain that their finances are safe and secure in the UK
Læs mere »
Here's why environmental movement Extinction Rebellion will be back in Leeds this weekendEnvironmental movement Extinction Rebellion are set to return to Leeds this weekend.
Læs mere »