Grit, Weather, and Recovery: A Guide to the 2026 Grouse Season
Weather
Grouse thrive best in cold, dry weather conditions that help suppress the strongyle worm, maintaining bird condition ahead of the breeding season. However, the 2025–2026 winter has seen some large regional variations in weather to date with Northern Scotland having had a very wet winter, indeed one of the wettest on record. “The grouse stocks on many moors are lower than usual, but there is a feeling amongst gamekeepers that the stock they do have will come through in reasonable shape ready for the 2026 breading season,” says Rumenco’s Technical Formulations Associate, Sophie Thorpe.
The decline of grouse populations in the UK is a complex issue driven by various factors, including weather, habitat loss, disease, food availability and climate change. The upcoming May and June weather is likely to be an important determiner in how well grouse will fare. “Many people working within the industry will recall how much of an impact it had on the dramatic crash of 2024 and in the improved breeding success of 2025,” says Sophie
Recovery after a difficult 2024
Strongyle worm numbers tend to correlate with red grouse numbers. Hence, high worm burdens are not usually found where grouse densities are low, which is demonstrated by the low total mean worm burden observed in 2025*. However, grouse numbers on many moors did improve in 2025 after a disastrous 2024 breeding season, and in some cases, worm burdens were elevated. “In cases where worm burdens are high, it is essential that gamekeepers can rely on a tool like medicated grit to reduce worm burdens,” continues Sophie.
Whilst stock levels are not where they would ideally want to be on some moors, they are undoubtedly at a better level than we have seen for the last couple of years. Experience tells us that even a modest stock of grouse, if it overwinters well and is followed by a favourable spring and early summer, can deliver a good season.
All about grit
During the grouse breeding season, it is crucial to manage the use of medicated grit to ensure the health and productivity of the grouse population. However, before using medicated grit, worm burdens within the grouse population must be accurately assessed, and medicated grit is only available under veterinary prescription. Unmedicated grit can be used year-round to aid digestion and support gut health of the birds.
Looking ahead to 2026
“Looking ahead to the 2026 breeding season, the grouse themselves are looking good, stocks are improving, and confidence amongst gamekeepers is returning,” concludes Sophie.
References
*Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Advisory Service (2025). Red grouse health testing 2025. Available at: Red grouse health testing 2025 – GWCT Advisory Scotland
