How should we do a grouse count on our moorland?

A reader asked: “Our small syndicate has taken over a nice bit of moorland in the Grampian region this year and we would like to the best way count grouse.” 

Hugo Straker had this advice: Hopefully you will go for what we call block counts, rather than estimated transect counts: block counts are much more accurate whereas the other can only give a broad brush stroke of a moor’s likely population.

The best way to count grouse

To do a block count, you really need to concentrate on the whole moor, working a pointer to find, and flush, coveys on command. Counts should not start until the young grouse are able to fly which, usually, is around July 20.

To do it, mark out a block of land with white fence posts in a one kilometer square (about 250 acres) and work the dog in half a dozen parallel passes. When the dog goes on point, move forward and flush the covey, counting birds as they rise. Then move on in a straight line again.

Transect counts are quicker because you simply walk the dog through the lower parts of the drives from one of the butts. You walk away from one of the butts in a straight line for 2-300 yards, then move at right angles for 150 yards, before walking back to the line of butts.

Whichever method of counting you decide to do make sure you do not double count the broods and always make a note of covey numbers, including the number of young to old birds that are flushed.

The ratio for shooting to go-ahead

If you are happy with the accuracy of your counts, then only shoot if the young-to-old ratio is in your favour. On the English Pennines and Borders a 2:1/2 or better ratio is okay, whereas one above 1:1/4 is suitable for the Scottish Highlands. Anything less than that and the moor should not be shot.