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New hope for endangered capercaillie after latest count
The latest lek counts show the first increase in male capercaillie in eight years.
The recent counts show the first increase in male capercaillie in eight years.

The latest lek counts of capercaillie in Scotland have renewed hope for the critically endangered bird, showing the first increase in male capercaillie in eight years.

The lek survey, which was co-ordinated by the Capercaillie Advisory Officer, counted the number of male birds that attended known lek locations and revealed an increase of 19 male capercaillie since 2022.

A new study also reveals that, although the genetic diversity of capercaillie in Scotland is low, there is no evidence to suggest that it has significantly declined during the 20th century since first reintroductions.

The lek counts come as part of a co-ordinated action plan led by Cairngorms National Park Authority and NatureScot, in order to provide an insight into population trends and inform local capercaillie authorities working to save the species from extinction.

The counts are intended to provide insights and not an overall population estimate, as it is only a partial data set. Female capercaillie can be missed as they do not attend leks every day and young males do not attend leks until they are ready to breed.

The capercaillie population still remains in danger, with the 2021/2022 survey counting only 542 capercaillie in Scotland. This is a decrease of over 50 per cent in the past five years and the lowest recorded level since surveys started.

The lek counts and genetic data will be presented to stakeholders to inform new action to save the species. This includes developing a spatial plan to co-ordinate activities from fence marking and removal to working with access takers and expanding pinewood habitat.

The action plan was called for by the Scottish government’s minister for green skills, circular economy and biodiversity Lorna Slater, who said: “The capercaillie is on the verge of extinction in Scotland, however new research shows that there is hope for the species.

“I know how much work has already gone into protecting one of Scotland’s most iconic birds, and we cannot let these efforts be in vain.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.