In the early part of the twentieth century Langholm Moor was one of the most productive moors for red grouse in Britain. Data published in the Joint Raptor Study showed there was a long-term decline in the number of grouse shot at Langholm from 1948 onwards. This was not due to raptors but most likely caused by the 48% reduction in the extent of heather cover. In common with other nearby moors grouse numbers cycled every 6-7 years due to recurrence of the parasitic worm Trichostrongylus. During and immediately following the Joint Raptor Study densities of red grouse failed to recover from a cyclic low and continued to decline. This was caused by predation from birds of prey. Since 1999 there has been no attempt to run Langholm as a driven grouse moor.

Numbers of grouse shot at Langholm (green) since 1975 campared to two nearby moors (grey and brown). All three shown cyclic changes in number due to the periodic parasitic disease Strongylosis, but unlike the other two, Langholm failed to recover after the hen harriers became established during the Joint Raptor Study.

Average red grouse numbers on the survey plots at Langholm since 1992.There was no spring count in 2001 because of foot and mouth restrictions. Vertical lines are 1 standard error.

The project seeks to produce a population of red grouse sufficient to sustain an economically viable driven grouse shoot. An initial target of 1,000 brace of grouse shot in one year has been set. Grouse are counted on 8 to 10 survey plots as well as 35 kilometres of transect lines twice a year.