About Clare Haggas: Clare is a renowned wildlife artist, based in Cheltenham England, who brings her artwork to life on British made, silk accessories. Read more here.
The UK grouse season is one of the most anticipated events in the country's sporting calendar. Steeped in history and tradition, it draws enthusiasts and sportsmen alike to experience the thrill of the hunt. But beyond the recreational aspect, the season is intricately linked to a greater environmental narrative concerning the grouse and their natural habitat: the moorlands.
The Grouse Season Timings
Grouse shooting commences on the 12th of August, famously known as the “Glorious Twelfth,” and continues until the 10th of December. This period provides ample time for participants to engage in the hunt, while also ensuring that grouse populations aren’t unduly compromised.
Grouse Conservation Efforts
In recent years, the topic of grouse conservation has taken center stage. There are concerns about grouse numbers and the potential impact of intensive shooting. This has led to more stringent regulations and adaptive management strategies to ensure a sustainable population of grouse.
Many landowners and conservationists work collaboratively to put measures in place to not only protect the grouse but also to enhance their moorland habitat. Controlled burning, for instance, encourages new heather growth which provides better feeding opportunities for grouse. Predator control is another aspect that keeps numbers of grouse predators, like foxes and crows, in check.
The Moorlands: A Vital Ecosystem
The moorlands, characterized by their rolling landscapes, heather, and unique biodiversity, are the natural habitat of the grouse. They are also integral to the UK’s environmental fabric. Moorlands act as significant carbon sinks, trapping vast amounts of carbon and mitigating the effects of climate change. Additionally, they regulate water flow, reducing flood risks in lower areas.
Protecting the moorlands isn’t just about grouse conservation. It's about preserving an ecosystem that offers immense environmental, social, and economic value. Grouse shooting, as a regulated activity, provides an economic incentive to maintain and enhance the moorlands, linking it directly to their conservation.
The Moorland Association
For a comprehensive look into the moorlands, their significance, and their linkage to the grouse, The Moorland Association is a valuable resource. As an organization, it promotes the conservation of heather moorlands and the biodiversity that these landscapes support. They work closely with landowners, conservationists, and other stakeholders to ensure that the delicate balance of this ecosystem is maintained.
Clare Haggas: A Passion for the Grouse and Moorland-inspired Artistry
In the world of country and wildlife art, Clare Haggas stands out as a name synonymous with passion, dedication, and a deep-seated love for the grouse. Her fondness for these iconic birds and the enchanting moorland landscapes in which they thrive is evident in her artwork and silk collections.
Haggas' art is a vivid blend of traditionalism and contemporary flair, capturing the essence of the grouse in its natural habitat. Through her brush strokes, the grouse isn't just a bird; it's a story, a dance of colors, and a representation of the UK's wilderness.
You can also buy Hamish the red grouse artwork
Beyond paintings and prints, Clare Haggas has expanded her grouse-themed offerings into an array of associated products. From scarves and ties to accessories and homewares, each piece carries the distinctive Haggas touch. Her creations have not only won the admiration of art enthusiasts but also those passionate about country pursuits, making her pieces highly sought after, especially during the grouse season.
‘Grouse Misconduct’ by Clare Haggas
Introducing 'Grouse Misconduct' - the new Collection by Clare Haggas – a rebellious homage to English heritage, shooting, and the captivating red grouse.
Channelling the spirit of the Glorious Twelfth, each of these Classic Ties radiates the energy of the shooting season's start. Clare Haggas' original artwork vividly portrays the regal red grouse, capturing the rugged beauty of the moors.
By championing the grouse and moorland through her art, Clare Haggas contributes to the broader narrative of conservation and tradition. Her work serves as a testament to the beauty of the natural world and the enduring allure of the grouse, underpinning its significance in the British countryside.
Launching later in August '23, Clare has released an early preview of the Grouse Misconduct collection which you can browse here.
Browse the new Grouse Misconduct collection here.
Join the Celebration
As the “Glorious Twelfth” approaches, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the UK grouse season. From the thrill of the hunt to the artistry of talents like Clare Haggas, there's a way for everyone to connect with this unique heritage. Cherish the moorlands, appreciate the majestic grouse, and become a part of this enduring story. Embrace the season and all its offerings.
