Conservation status
Once widespread on upland and lowland heathland in England, Scotland and Wales, the black grouse has now become locally extinct in many regions. It is one of the most rapidly declining bird species in the UK, with only 5,100 lekking males during the last survey (2005). The species is on the 'Red' list of species of high conservation concern because of its serious decline. As such, it is one of the highest priorities for action, and one of 26 bird species for which a UK Biodiversity Action Plan has been produced. Status in the UK and abroad |