Lagopus lagopus scotica
The Red Grouse is a medium-sized game bird with a plump body and short, rounded wings. Males display a rich chestnut-brown plumage with black barring, a distinctive red 'eyebrow' comb, and a black beak.
Females are slightly smaller and more heavily barred, lacking the red comb. Both sexes have feathered legs and feet, appearing white in winter. Their plumage darkens in summer for better camouflage.
Juveniles are duller than females, with an indistinct brownish plumage. They do not have a visible eye comb.
Length
37cm to 42cm
Wingspan
55cm to 66cm
Weight
550g to 750g
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Red Grouse are endemic to the British Isles, found exclusively in heather moorlands across Scotland, northern England, Wales, and Ireland. They prefer upland areas with a mix of young and mature heather for feeding and cover.
Their distribution remains relatively stable throughout the year, with some local movements to lower elevations during harsh winters. They are most abundant in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands and Islands.
In Wales, the top spotting locations include Snowdonia, Lake Vyrnwy, and the Brecon Beacons, while in Scotland, the best spots include the Lammermuir Hills and Borders regions and throughout the Cairngorms.
In England, several northern national parks offer a good chance of spotting Red Grouse, in particular the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, Peak District and Northumberland National Park.
Up to 850 meters
Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Red Grouse. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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