News

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6th July 2009

New independent research published today by a coalition of rural and conservation groups shows that heather moorland is highly valued, but little understood.

The survey, carried out by ORB for the Countryside Alliance, Moorland Association and National Gamekeepers Organisation, shows that whilst nearly nine out of ten people think that heather moorland is important for tranquillity, recreation and wildlife, less than half have heard of iconic moorland birds, or understand that heather moorland is actively managed.

Six out of ten wrongly believe that conservation charities and Government agencies do most work to look after moors. In fact, in England, 90% of heather moorland is conserved by gamekeepers, privately funded through driven grouse shooting.

Edward Bromet, Chairman of The Moorland Association said: “The Red Grouse is a fascinating bird that is totally dependent on heather moorland and is unique to Britain. However, less than half of people realised the bird is not artificially reared and is in fact completely wild.

“It is astonishing that Britain’s most protected landscapes are so poorly understood when cherished by so many people. More obviously needs to be done to help explain that it is grouse shooting that maintains our threatened heather moorland, and the important wildlife it supports. Natural England, National Park Authorities and other public bodies should be doing more to correct misconceptions about who does all the work and foster a true understanding and better enjoyment of our heather moorlands.”

Fieldwork was conducted by Opinion Research Business ORB 13th – 15th March. Representative telephone survey of 1,004 adults aged 18+ in UK. Data available on request.