Seasonal variation in lek attendance and lekking behaviour by male Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix

摘要: Eleven Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix leks in the Scottish Highlands were visited at dawn once every week for a year. Apart from July and three which unoccupied winter, males throughout Total numbers of attending peaked March one study area (six leks) April second (five leks). The number present proportion occupied varied seasonally. was maximum (80% males) when all attended, with secondary peak September 60% had present. Males spent most time displaying April. optimal conditions attendance calm, dry mornings just after dawn. Most reliable counts those made between last end first May.