Black grouse are in serious trouble. Numbers are so low in the UK that they are at risk of extinction in many areas. These birds need all the help they can get – so it is vital that we take our responsibilities seriously and avoid harming these wonderful birds.

*When watching black grouse please follow these guidelines as well as the Birdwatchers’ Code*

• Black grouse lek for much of the year, the key period  being April and May.
• Watch leks and feeding birds from a vehicle. Black grouse pay little attention to stationery vehicles which are at least 100 metres away. Ensure that you do not block access or disturb nearby residents. Avoid approaching a lek on foot, which usually disturbs the birds.
• Arrive at leks before daybreak. A vehicle stopping once it is light can disturb the birds. Stay in your vehicle and watch quietly through binoculars and telescopes. Get the flask of coffee from the boot before your vigil. Don’t start the engine until after lekking has wound down, usually about two hours after dawn. Alternatively consider watching a lek in the evening.
• Keep to footpaths, especially between May and August, when there may be nesting females and young birds present.
• Keep dogs under control (on a lead) when close to black grouse habitat and do not bring dogs into the field when you’re watching grouse.

More…

• More information on black grouse and how to watch them responsibly