WALKERS have been urged to roam responsibly after a capercaillie was killed by a dog on a Highland estate.
The male bird was attacked on the Rothiemurchus Estate near Aviemore, where it was said to have defended its territory instead of running from people and dogs.
Capercaillie are on the red list of Birds of Conservation Concern due to the long-term decline in its UK breeding range.
The Cairngorms National Park, which includes Rothiemurchus, is home to 80% of Scotland's population of the birds.
Johnnie Grant, owner of Rothiemurchus, said it is vital dogs are kept on short leads in sensitive areas.
He said: "This irresponsible behaviour does not just affect capercaillie. Every year roe deer, calves and other wildlife are disturbed or injured by dogs.
"This year the behaviour of this lone male was much more aggressive. So Rothiemurchus designed new signs, making it clear to owners to keep their dogs on a short lead."
Keith Duncan, Aviemore-based operations officer with Scottish Natural Heritage, said: "We would ask that people who want to see a capercaillie go to the nearby Osprey Centre at Loch Garten to witness typical behaviour."
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