Walkers asked to keep dogs under control to help capercaillie thrive

Dog-walkers are being asked to take care around the Cairngorms National Park this spring to allow capercaillie to thrive.

Park staff are encouraging visitors to keep pets under control and be extra mindful of where they tread.

Capercaillie are a protected species by law, making it an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb them while they are lekking, nesting or rearing their young.

Carolyn Robertson, Cairngorms Capercaillie Project manager, said: “This time of year is especially critical for the survival of ground-nesting birds like capercaillie and we all have a part to play in keeping them safe.

“Over 80% of Scotland’s small remaining capercaillie population now live in the pinewoods of the Cairngorms National Park.

“When capercaillie chicks are young they can’t survive without their mothers and they may not regroup as a family after being scattered.”

Capercaillie gather in specific areas of pinewood to mate each spring and if the birds are disturbed they may not breed at all.

Adam Streeter-Smith, Cairngorms National Park Authority access officer, said: “Although a dog might be well-behaved and friendly, a capercaillie sees them as a threat.

“In pine woodlands, between April and mid-August, please keep your dog on a lead when requested by signage.

“It’s extremely important that we follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code so we know we’re always helping to protect the environment and wildlife we love.”

Capercaillie are a protected species by law.