Have you ever seen a capercaillie in the wild? Probably not, because the big bird, the largest gallinaceous bird in Europe, is not only very shy, but also threatened with extinction in Germany and Central Europe. The natural habitat of birds has become smaller and smaller in recent years. Nature conservationists try to breed them and release them into the wild, but numbers of the species are declining. In spring 2019, only about 100 courting grouse were counted in the Black Forest. That is far fewer than would be necessary for the healthy preservation of the animal species.
The capercaillie as an umbrella species
But why are the capercaillie so worthy of protection? As a so-called umbrella species, this bird is of particular importance in Germany. This means that by protecting the capercaillie - like an umbrella - other species are also protected. By protecting the habitat of the capercaillie, many other animals and plants can also survive better.
The Central Black Forest currently has the largest capercaillie population outside of the Alps. The forest district of the Middle Black Forest is therefore very actively involved in the preservation of this important animal species. In our work camp at the end of February, we work together with the forest district directly on Kniebis, the highest mountain in the region, and help with various tasks in the forest.
How we can improve the habitat of the capercaillie in the Central Black Forest
Together with the employees of the forest district, we want to improve the habitat of the capercaillie in our work camp. Overall, the birds need a forest with many different tree and shrub layers and also deadwood. This is the only way for them to have enough hiding places and a large supply of food.
Protection of species in the forest
In the work camp we will lighten the dense forest stands and create open spaces and gaps in the forest so that more light reaches the forest floor. This allows, for example, wild blueberries, one of the birds' favorite snacks, to grow again. The capercaillie has a very specific mating ritual that also requires space: In this ritual, the male birds make a big show raising their tail feathers, moving and singing in order to impress the females. Here, too, forest clearings are much more suitable than continuous dense spruce forests.
What you can do to protect the capercaillie
Even if you are not at our work camp at Kniebis, but use the Black Forest for hiking, biking or cross-country skiing, you can help to protect the capercaillie and other species: stay on the designated paths, cross-country ski runs or trails. Refrain from walking across the forest with snowshoes or skis. And always leave nature as you found it.
Volunteer with IBG for climate protection in forests and bogs
Under the motto "Let's take action for climate protection', in 2022 we will be dealing with the topic of climate protection in forests and bogs in our camps, in our full-time team and with our voluntary group leaders and teamers. Will you join us?