Grouse Shooting

If driven grouse shooting ceased, we estimate, using RSPB data that the cost of replacing lost curlew chicks in northern England would be £5,000–£10,000 per fledged chick.

While much attention is often given to the dramatic images of uncontrolled fires, less is heard about the unsung heroes who work tirelessly year-round to prevent them and protect our countryside: gamekeepers.

This is a summary of our full briefing note, published in advance of the Westminster debate on the future of driven grouse shooting.

On 30th June, MPs will return to a familiar topic: the future of driven grouse shooting. Ahead of the Westminster debate, the Moorland Association has produced a comprehensive briefing note - and we urge anyone with an interest in the uplands to read it.

Across the UK, many ground-nesting bird populations are in steep decline. Species like the curlew, lapwing, and golden plover, some of which are of global conservation concern, face significant threats

It’s a critical moment to understand the immense, positive impact that traditional moorland management has on our precious countryside.

The new report - 'The Grouse Moor Gamekeeper in England in the Twenty-First Century' – illustrates how the role of a grouse moor gamekeeper involves constant, year-round environmental management

These frequently asked questions are taken from this report: Wildlife Warden, Conservation Manager, Fire Fighter, and Educator: The Grouse Moor Gamekeeper in England in the 21st Century

This is a summary of an in-depth study which takes a close look at the reality of grouse moor gamekeepers in England today, revealing a role far more complex, vital, and demanding than commonly understood.

A new academic report has underlined the critical role that gamekeepers play in protecting England’s upland landscapes - particularly in preventing wildfires, conserving wildlife, and supporting local economies.

Our English uplands are complex ecosystems facing increasing demands from all corners of society. From supporting rare wildlife to acting as vital water sources and playing a crucial role in our fight against climate change, our uplands are truly multi-functional.

This blog post examines the decline of breeding waders within the Berwyn Special Protection Area (SPA) in North Wales, exploring the potential reasons behind it and, most importantly, what lessons we can learn for the future of our precious upland birds.