GROUSE moors in Scotland are preparing for what experts say could be the strongest shooting season in years.
The country's recent heat wave has brought some unusually large grouse broods, which some believe could make this shooting season a huge success that will boost the economy.
The season is due to kick off on Monday - the Glorious 12th - the traditional opening day of the country sports tourism season.
Robert Rattray, of rural property and sporting let agency CKD Galbraith, said: "Although Scotland endured a cold and long winter, in recent weeks this has made way for sunshine and almost unprecedented warm weather.
"Careful assessment of grouse stocks is revealing potential for one of the best seasons for many years, with some unusually large broods being seen.
"A late start to the breeding season means that shooting will extend through to September and October in many places.
"Grouse shooting generates around £30 million for the Scottish economy, but I would imagine figures this year will be much higher, with all the knock-on benefits of seasonal employment in local communities."
It is estimated that country sports - shooting, stalking and fishing - bring in around £350m a year for the Scottish economy.
The income from the grouse shooting supports remote communities, and the year-round management of grouse moors protects rare wildlife that lives in the surrounding habitat.
As red grouse and deer are not artificially reared, external factors including the weather and predators have a huge impact on the success of a sporting season.
Victoria Brooks, of the Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group (SCSTG), said: "After last year's disappointing country sports season, caused mainly by the poor weather, the strong outlook for grouse shooting this year is all the more welcome.
"Grouse shooting season is followed by open season on wildfowling, partridge and pheasant shooting which extend until the end of January.
"We have had inquiries and bookings from people all over the world who will spend the hunting season on the moorlands of Scotland and in doing so generate huge income, support numerous jobs and help our indigenous wildlife and their habitats survive."
Tim Baynes of the Scottish land and estates moorland group, added: "Country sports tourism is changing all the time to improve the customer experience, develop sporting opportunities and raise awareness of Scotland as a leading sporting destination.
"The role of country sports as a rural employer and custodian of areas of conservation interest cannot be overstated.
"Many may not appreciate the conservation aspect of moorland management, but the activity required to enable successful grouse shooting - careful rotational burning of the heather, control of problem predators and careful integration with existing farming practices - all enable practical conservation of rare bird populations such as waders at minimal cost to the taxpayer."
Mike Cantlay, VisitScotland chairman, said: "The Glorious 12th is a renowned date and marks the start of what will undoubtedly be a good season for this important tourism sector.
"Through the VisitScotland Growth Fund, the SCSTG has boosted Scotland's reputation as a country sports destination to a wider audience in the UK and northern Europe.
"Country sports operate year-round and therefore provide a valuable extension to the season for accommodation providers, restaurants, retail outlets and other activity providers and attractions.
"The Glorious 12th provides Scotland with a great opportunity to showcase our country sports credentials to wealthy visitors from around the world ahead of 2014, which marks an incredible year for Scotland through major events such as the Ryder Cup, Commonwealth Games and Homecoming. Our ability to host such a diverse range of events and activities ensure Scotland continues to have something for every visitor."
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