©Margaret Holland
Red grouse
Scientific name: Lagopus lagopus
The red grouse is an umistakeable bird - plump and round, with a gingery-red body as its name suggests. Found on upland heathlands, it is under threat from the nationwide, dramatic loss of these habitats.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 40-43cmWingspan:60cm
Weight: 600g
Average lifespan: est. 2-7 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021). Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The red grouse is a plump bird about the same size and shape as a grey partridge. It feeds on heather and can be found on upland heathlands and moorland - it's often spotted as it's flushed from the heather, suddenly flying upwards with rapid, whirring wingbeats. There are actually two subspecies of red grouse: Lagopus lagopus scotia (the red grouse of the British Isles) and Lagopus lagopus lagopus (the willow grouse of Scandinavia and Alaska).How to identify
The red grouse is a plump bird with a rich, gingery-brown body, short, black tail and red 'eyebrows'.Distribution
Found in North and South West England, Wales and Scotland.Habitats
Did you know?
The red grouse is the 'Famous Grouse' that appears on whisky bottles. The grouse brand was born in 1896 in Scotland and deliberately named after an iconic Scottish bird. But it was the popularity of it that inspired the makers to add 'Famous' to the title.Watch
Red grouse by Tom Hibbert