Home / Environment / Nature Reserve Expands to Save Endangered Capercaillie
Nature Reserve Expands to Save Endangered Capercaillie
18 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Abernethy nature reserve has expanded by 33 hectares.
- Cattle grazing is used to boost growth of blaeberries.
- This grazing supports endangered capercaillie and black grouse.
RSPB Abernethy nature reserve has recently acquired an additional 33 hectares of land, marking a significant expansion for the renowned wildlife sanctuary. This strategic purchase, completed as the reserve celebrates its 50th anniversary, enhances its capacity for ecological restoration.
The expanded area will facilitate increased cattle grazing across diverse habitats. This practice is central to the reserve's vision, mimicking extinct herbivores to improve conditions for vulnerable birds like the capercaillie and black grouse. Specifically, it aids in boosting blaeberry growth, a vital food source.
This initiative directly benefits the endangered capercaillie, with their population numbering just over 500 in the UK. Cattle grazing helps by promoting blaeberry growth for adult birds and insects for chicks, while also clearing undergrowth for easier chick movement and protection.
