Preliminary results from a translocation trial to stimulate black grouse Tetrao tetrix range expansion in northern England.

Abstract

Following the instigation of conservation measures, black grouse in England have increased in numbers from 773 males in 1998 to 1029 males in 2006, but their range has not expanded. Range expansion may be limited by the low dispersal rates of male black grouse, with yearling males dispersing on average 0.8 km, compared to 9.3 km by females. To expand the range of black grouse into suitable habitats on the fringe of their range we commenced a translocation trial in the winter of 2006/7. Two release sites were selected which were considered to have suitable habitat to sustain a lekking group, had full time predator controllers operating and were within the dispersal range of yearling females. Thirteen males equipped with radio transmitters were released, eight at one site, five at the other. All were observed lekking and females were subsequently seen at both release sites.