Capercaillie Restrictions

[Freefall]

A reminder for those tempted to run around a nice Scottish forest that capercaillie restrictions start to apply from 1 March. The SOA Regular Orienteering Map Programme in Inshriach and Loch Vaa has come to an end and I spent a pleasant day removing most of the controls yesterday.

Inshriach.jpg (241.24 KiB) Viewed 2845 times

. The next edition of Focus will feature some further comment on these fine birds.

[Big Jon]

Of course if you don't know which areas have Capercaillie restrictions then you can run there...

[Freefall]

To quote from our current agreement:
The Capercaillie Biodiversity Action Plan Steering Group (Capercaillie BAP Group), via the Capercaillie Project Officer, will advise the Scottish Orienteering Association (SOA) of the most sensitive areas within the species range – currently limited to Deeside/Aberdeenshire, Moray, Easter Ross, Perthshire and Strathspey. A list and map of areas will be supplied to the SOA for restricted circulation to the orienteering clubs who may be affected. This information will be reviewed annually by the Capercaillie BAP Group and the SOA advised of any changes.
Capercaillie are now listed in Schedule 1 Part I of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). It is an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb, kill, injure or take a capercaillie, though reckless behaviour is not defined in legislation.
In my capacity as Professional Officer can I just urge orienteers to be cautious if they think that there are capercaillie in the area, especially if more "organised" orienteering activities or events take place?