REINTRODUCING CAPERCAILLIE (TETRAO-UROGALLUS) INTO SOUTHERN SCOTLAND - IDENTIFICATION OF MINIMUM VIABLE POPULATIONS AT POTENTIAL RELEASE SITES

Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) populations are declining in western p arts of their range, including Scotland. It has been proposed that the ir numbers, and the extent of their range in Scotland be increased to reduce the risk of a second extinction in the UK. The feasibility of a reintroduction of capercaillie to coniferous plantations in southern Scotland was assessed by undertaking a population viability analysis. Following a review of capercaillie ecology and habitat requirements, V ORTEX population simulation software was used to identify a minimum vi able population (MVP). From this the minimum dynamic area of suitable habitat required in order to support such a MVP was then calculated. I t was estimated that a minimum of 60 individuals would be required in approximately 5000 ha of habitat in order for the population to have a >0.95 probability of surviving for 50 years. Supplementation of popul ations with two unrelated individuals every five years reduced the MVP to ten individuals. Further simulations were run in order to establis h the sensitivity of the model to changes in three key parameters. Ass essment of areas of suitable habitat identified two potential release sites, Wauchope and Newcastleton forests, in southern Scotland. Some p ractical considerations relating to management of a release population are outlined. It was concluded that an appropriately planned and reso urced reintroduction was feasible.