Since 1999, I have been managing a grouse conservation project run by the Austrian Federal Forests, focused on habitat improvement and connectivity in the Ausseerland region. Creating open, mosaic-like forest stands, managing visitor access, predator control, and promoting food plants can all greatly contribute to the preservation of these species.

Eliminating deadly hazards like fences or wires, establishing flight corridors, and piling branches after forestry operations—so that hens with their chicks are not faced with impassable obstacles—are also important aspects of habitat care for these remarkable birds.

In addition to ongoing monitoring, I have been measuring every grouse taken in the region since 2000, as there are no usable data available at the national level in Austria. These species rely heavily on our help for their survival. Their fascinating courtship displays each spring are a continual source of motivation to work for the preservation of these mysterious wild birds.