Changes in land use could be behind the decline in numbers

The Black Grouse is one of the rarest birds in England, with an estimated 100 males left in Northumberland.

Now the Forestry Commission has come-up with a Black Grouse survival plan, which will see 6,500 acres of Kielder Forest being cleared.

The aim is to create a perfect breeding habitat for the birds with an abundance of insects and berries to eat.

The "design plan" will involve creating a mix of willow, rowan, birch, alder, pine and open space.

Work will start on 75 acres this year, eventually extending to 5% of the forest.

Kielder's black grouse population is long-standing, but we are not entirely sure how many survive Neville Geddes, the Forestry Commission

Anna Moody, RSPB Conservation Officer for Northumberland, said: "This is fantastic news for Kielder's tenacious population of black grouse, and the Forestry Commission are to be congratulated on an exciting plan.

"Imaginative woodland management of this kind is vital if we are to ensure the long-term survival of black grouse in the region.

"Planting a variety of native broad-leaved trees and maintaining open areas on the forest fringe will create a varied habitat that is ideal for these spectacular birds."

Neville Geddes from the Forestry Commission said: "Kielder's black grouse population is long-standing, but we are not entirely sure how many survive.

"The number is small and needs expanding to more viable levels to withstand bad years.

"These plans will hopefully provide the spur it needs and adds up to one of the biggest habitat creation schemes of its kind.

"Over the decades the forest edge will become a mosaic of habitats, making the grouse feel more at home and offering a year-round food supply."