Shooting UK

From guns and gundogs to the latest shooting news; the complete online network for the British shooting community.

Can you give me some information on capercaillie?

Missing property

The capercaillie is the world's largest grouse and covers most of Europe.


By David Tomlinson

Monday, 15 October 2007

I recently saw mention of an Iberian capercaillie in an article and, though I've been a keen shot and bird-watcher for years, cannot recall having heard of this bird. Is there such a bird? What also is the status of the British caper today?

A: The capercaillie, the world's largest grouse, has an extensive range that includes the Pyrenees, the Alps, Scandinavia and Siberia, extending as far east as Lake Baikal.

The westernmost population is to be found in northern Spain in the Cantabrian Mountains.

These Iberian capers are rather small, and have sub-specific status as tetrao urogullus cantabricus.

They are seriously endangered, as the population now numbers fewer than 100 birds.

The reintroduced Scottish population has been in steep decline since the early 1970s, but has shown some signs of stabilising in recent years. It is thought to number approximately 2,000 birds.


CompPrevious

How do I choose a labrador puppy?

Having seen John Humphreys' bitch, I would lo...

CompNext
Are Irish terriers difficult to train?

Are Irish terriers difficult to train?

A: I grew up with crossbred terriers that worked a...


Guns

Perazzi SC3 shotgun review

Perazzi SC3 shotgun review

Every shooter dreams of a bespoke shotgun, so they should take a look ... Read more


More in Guns...


Sporting Answers

Do I want a spaniel or a labrador?

Do I want a spaniel or a labrador?

I go rabbit and pigeon shooting, and now intend to get a gundog. I am ... Read more


More in Sporting Answers...


News

Eric Clapton and Bryan Ferry headline CA concert

Big names set to go back on stage in aid of the Countryside Alliance t... Read more


More in News...



Comments

Shooting Times Magazine

What's in this issue?

Don't miss your chance to enter our FREE prize draw in this week's magazine (on sale 10th March) to win the new Browning B525 Hunter 12-bore worth over £1,400. Get down to your newsagents and buy your copy now!

Subscribe to magazine

Save up to 30% on a subscription to Shooting Times & Country Magazine, subscribe today!


Latest articles

Locals vote no to sea eagles

Locals vote no to sea eagles

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust's AGM attracted more than 100 ... Read more


Dog owners face competency test

Dog owners face competency test

A "competency test" for all dog owners could be impl... Read more


More in Latest articles...


Subscribe to Shooting Times

Shooting Gazette Magazine

Save up to 30% on a subscription to Shooting Times & Country Magazine, subscribe today!