Black grouse numbers have been falling as their habitats disappear

Numbers of the endangered bird had plummeted from 25,000 pairs in 1991 to only 5,000 pairs at the last count.

But a concerted effort to protect the iconic species has led to an upturn in its fortunes at two Highland sites.

It is hoped similar work in other areas will allow more of the game birds to feed, display and roost in safety.

The projects at the Corrimony reserve, near Cannich, and Glenmore Forest close to Aviemore, were undertaken by the Scottish Forest Alliance (SFA).

Black grouse are one of our most threatened species Andrew Fairbairn Woodland Trust Scotland

The body brings together RSPB Scotland, Forestry Commission Scotland, the Woodland Trust Scotland and BP.

It said the numbers of black grouse at Corrimony increased from 35 to 57 between 2002 and 2007, while at Glenmore Forest the population doubled, with a recent count spotting 28 birds in the area.

SFA planted thousands of native trees, restored wetlands and reduced the number of deer to create the perfect habitat for the black grouse.

Small pockets

Andrew Fairbairn, development manager of the Woodland Trust Scotland, said: "Black grouse are one of our most threatened species - on the UK red list of conservation species due to their massive decline in range.

"These increases [at Corrimony and Glenmore] are a real measure of the additional benefits to biodiversity and wildlife that the SFA project is bringing.

"We hope that this success will be mirrored at all SFA sites in the coming years, and play a major part in helping the recovery of this species."