Status and use of hazel grouse resources in the Kirov region, Russia: history and modernity

Hazel (Tetrastes bonasia L., 1758) grouse is a member of the Phasianidae family, native to forest zone of Eurasia. Its widespread distribution, relative simplicity and accessibility of hunting determine its popularity among hunters and economic importance. The history of hazel grouse resource use includes both mass procurement and recreational hunting. Currently, hazel grouse is endangered in Western Europe. In the Kirov region, hazel grouse is a valuable hunting resource. The bird number in the region (151.83 thousand individuals) is estimated based on state monitoring data. As an alternative approach to determining the hazel grouse (821.20 thousand individuals) in the region, the materials of the "Harvest Service" of the Russian Research Institute of Game Management and Fur Farming were used. Fivefold discrepancies in the estimates are complemented by differences in the trends of long-term dynamics of the species population. The share of hazel grouse resources from the Kirov region on a national scale is determined. The estimates of bird population utilization are presented based on two sources. A sixfold discrepancy in estimates of hazel grouse harvest is noted. Product categories in the exploitation of hazel grouse resources are not numerous. The main motivation for hazel grouse hunting is meat production. The total volume of hazel grouse meat production in the Kirov Region is 19,424 kg worth 52,734,800.50 rubles. Hazel grouse hunting in the Kirov Region is permitted for 6.5 months long from the third Saturday of August to 28 (29) February. Hazel grouse is also harvested during hunting tours associated with hunting other species. A small proportion of birds is used by taxidermists in the region to make stuffed specimens.

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