Letter: Battles of the grouse moor

Thursday 14 August 1997 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Sir: Your article on the start of the grouse-shooting season ("A lovely morning, but not for everyone", 12 August) failed to mention the importance of grouse shooting for heather moorland and the wildlife that is supports.

The uplands and heather moorland in particular provide one of the best- managed wildlife habitats, when managed for shooting. Such moors have more diverse flora and fauna than those that are unmanaged, which are often overgrazed or become afforested. In Wales 28 out of 34 major grouse moors have been lost to forestry in the last decade.

Heather moorland supplies 33 bird species, while a typical bracken moor provides sustenance and shelter for only 15. Birds supported on heather moorland include merlin, golden plover and curlews. Populations of golden plover have been seen to increase directly in proportion to the standard of grouse management.

LESLEY FERGUSON

Head of Media Relations

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation

Wrexham, Clwyd

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Letter: Battles of the grouse moor

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering