A late September morning on a grouse moor here in the Dales. Thousands of money spider webs gracing the heather stands. It’s difficult to comprehend the remarks of those who say managed grouse moors are lifeless and barren, especially when sights like these are commonplace. What these webs of gossamer tell us is that not only are spiders extremely prolific but so are the insects that they prey upon. Insects, arachnids and other invertebrates are indicators of a healthy, vibrant habitat. These sp

Burning heather in Scotland (muirburn) Purpose of muirburn Habitat management: Creates a mosaic of heather at different stages of growth, which provides varied habitats for different wildlife and livestock. Regeneration: Stimulates fresh, nutritious shoots of heather and grass for animals like grouse, deer, and sheep. Biodiversity: Maintains a healthy moorland landscape that is beneficial for a range of upland species. Wildfire prevention: Reduces the amount of dry fuel on the moor, which helps

Sound on! 🔊 Walk through the forests of Southeast Alaska, and you might hear a deep, low-pitched hooting sound... Look up in the treetops, and you might spot a grouse! In this video, a sooty grouse was lucky to be spotted on the forest floor, filling the forest with a chorus of low hoots. Male grouse can be heard hooting from treetops to attract females during the spring mating season. 🎥NPS Video: Male sooty grouse with vivid yellow eye combs and exposed pink throat patches hoots while walking