Grouse — the ifs and butts

It is hard to imagine a more extraordinary year. It’s been encouraging to find that our shooting community has taken the initiative in working through some difficult conditions imposed by the COVID-19 lockdown. Here in Galloway, several of our local low-ground shoots have decided to proceed as planned with the 2020-21 season, sensibly taking all precaution to ensure that Guns and beaters will be safe from the disease. Other shoots have cancelled their sporting schedules altogether. Only time will tell what the best course of action will be.

With the grouse shooting season fast approaching, many of the main factors that determine a successful season are already cast in stone. Used to working in isolation, many grouse keepers will have