The Mediterranean Quercus pyrenaica oak forest: a new habitat for the Capercaillie?

Abstract

We described an extension of the known distribution range of the Cantabrian Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus into an atypical area and habitat for the species. Nine Capercaillie leks and 14 cocks were registered in Mediterranean Quercus pyrenaica forests in an area of 1,500 km2, of which 4,500 forest hectares were surveyed. At present, this population represents both the southern-most distribution for Capercaillie and the only one inhabiting Mediterranean Q. pyrenaica forests, what suggests a wider adaptation of this (sub)species than previously thought. This population and its habitat need to be better studied, as well as to be considered in conservation planning for Cantabrian Capercaillie