Uncertainty is overshadowing investment in grouse shooting by sporting estates in the long term given political pressures of land reform, a new report has found.

The survey of estates indicate that many view government agencies and emergent policy as a "threat" but predicts that estate-led investment in driven grouse is likely to continue in the short term at least.

This is due to the prestige associated with grouse moors attracting new owners, the high value of the product, increasing international market demand and the potential for subsidising moorland management through other land uses such as renewable energy projects.

The report by the Scotland’s Rural College and the University of the Highlands and Islands’ Centre for Mountain Studies at Perth College concludes: However, the marginal nature of grouse shooting and landowner concerns relating to time and financial pressures resulting from compliance with legislation and political pressure, indicate that uncertainty exists around investment in the longer term."

It focused on two areas the Angus Glens and the Monadhliaths around Stratherrick and Strathnairn south of Inverness.

Twenty six moorland estates were surveyed covering around a quarter of a million acres and included 266 households and 18 businesses.

The majority of these businesses benefited from spending by the estates and visiting shooting parties were viewed as a consistent and reliable source of income.

Dr Ros Bryce, from the Centre of Mountain Studies (UHI), said: “The research broadly demonstrated a high level of support for grouse shooting with a majority in both areas supportive of the continuation or expansion of grouse shooting.

“While awareness of estate management within local communities was generally good, a proportion of the community lacked awareness."

The report identified specific opportunities for enhancing estate-community engagement, including gamekeepers visiting local schools with pupils coming for ‘demonstration days’ on estates.

Speaking at the launch of the report in Edinburgh, Fergus Ewing, Minister for Business, Energy and Tourism, said: “I am very pleased to be able to extend support to all of those who make a success of field sports in a professional and responsible fashion."