The capercaillie and forest management: Can conservation and timber production be reconciled?

The capercaillie Tetrao urogallus is one of the most charismatic and widely recognised bird species in European forest conservation. The species inhabits low−productivity coniferous forests in both lowland and mountainous regions, particularly moist and swamp forest habitats. Capercaillie typically occur in structurally diverse forests characterised by relatively open canopy cover, a sparse understorey and a well−developed bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus layer. Habitat deterioration resulting from various human activities is widely regarded as the primary driver of the long−term decline of capercaillie populations throughout the species’ distribution range. Forest management practices that may negatively affect capercaillie habitats include maintaining dense canopy closure, promoting the development of lower stand layers and reducing the abundance of bilberry. Additional threats include shortened rotation periods in managed forests and the implementation of harvesting and timber extraction operations during the breeding season. Capercaillie populations are also adversely affected by dense networks of forest roads, increased human disturbance, the use of heavy forestry machinery within refugia and the fencing of forest plantations with metal mesh intended to protect them from overabundant ungulates. Nevertheless, within a framework of multifunctional forest management it is possible to reconcile the conservation requirements of the capercaillie with economic forest use, provided that timber production is not treated as the primary objective in areas important for the species. Maintaining viable populations requires the identification and protection of refugia – areas used by birds throughout the year and typically covering several hundred to several thousand hectares. Forest management in such areas should incorporate locally verified ecological requirements of the species. Habitat conditions for capercaillie can be improved by limiting harmful management practices and implementing measures that enhance overall habitat quality. Recommended actions include avoiding forestry operations during the breeding season, modifying clear−cut systems through retention forestry, maintaining moderately open and heterogeneous canopy structures, promoting natural regeneration and favouring uneven−aged silvicultural systems such as irregular shelterwood and selection systems.