As the red grouse season begins, debate rages over conservation, climate change, and the ethics of the hunt.

On 12 August, the UK’s red grouse shooting season begins, known to enthusiasts as the Glorious Twelfth. For supporters, it’s a celebration of heritage, rural skill, and one of the toughest game birds in the world. For critics, it’s a symbol of outdated practices and environmental harm.

The tradition dates back to 1831, when hunting restrictions were lifted. The arrival of the railways in the 1850s brought sportsmen from across the country to the uplands, while post-war rationing turned shoots into community events. Today, the season runs for 121 days, with Scotland its spiritual heartland.

Why It’s Celebrated

The red grouse is widely regarded as the ultimate challenge for the sportsman or woman. These birds are renowned for their extraordinary speed and agility, capable of reaching up to 80 miles per hour within just a few wingbeats. Their ability to twist, turn, and drop unpredictably in flight demands exceptional reflexes and accuracy from the gun.

Supporters say the sport boosts rural economies, supports conservation through moorland management, and provides one of the most sustainable meats available.

Why it's Criticised

Opponents, including the RSPB and animal welfare groups, argue that burning heather damages habitats and releases carbon, while predator control harms other wildlife.

The Climate Factor

Weather extremes are already reducing grouse numbers. Harsh winters, wet springs, and hot, insect-sparse summers have led to cancelled shoots, suggesting the sport’s future may be shaped more by climate change than by public debate.