Your guide to red grouse
A birdspotter’s guide to these stunning wild birds.
Is the red grouse native to the UK?
Yes. It is a subspecies of the willow grouse, whose range extends across the north-most latitudes of Asia, North America and Europe.
How can you recognise them?
Aptly named the ‘red’ grouse, the hue of red and brown feathers gives it a warm appearance.
Considered a medium sized bird, its length can vary between 37cm and 42cm with an extraordinary wingspan of 55cm to 66cm; impressive considering its petite body.
Where and when can you see them?
Whilst the red grouse is a bird native to the UK, it is more commonly spotted in the north of England and Scotland.
You can expect to see the red grouse feeding exclusively on heather which is a low growing evergreen shrub typically found on upland expanses of land.
How can I help red grouse?
Up to 3,000 red grouse are shot every day during hunting season in the UK. For the sake of these magnificent birds, please consider contacting your MP today to express your concerns about ‘game’ bird shooting.