2012 Onwards Scottish Lowlands and Southern Uplands Black Grouse (excluding Scottish Borders)

Method steps

1. One or two lek counts are carried out between the end of March and mid May at each site. These are co-ordinated counts that follow the survey methodology in Gilbert et al. Each count is carried out from one hour before dawn to one hour after. The counts are carried out using binoculars or a telescope from distances that avoid disturbance to the lek. The exact day depends on good weather; wet and windy mornings are avoided. Recording the number of cocks attending each lek gives an estimate of population size. Casual sightings from throughout the year and lek searches (grid squares searched for leks) are included as well. The entries in this dataset are observations which have been made by a diverse group including RSPB staff, volunteers and professionals from partner organisations (Forestry and Land Scotland, National Trust Scotland, Southern Upland Partnership, Borders Forest Trust and NatureScot). As such, the observers do not form an official study group.