Rewilding efforts in part of the Scottish Highlands have resulted in local populations of an “amazing species” of endangered bird reaching their highest level for 17 years, conservationists have announced.

Black grouse, which are seen as an important indicator species for ecosystem health, have suffered UK-wide decline over recent decades due to threats such as habitat loss and intensive land management.

The distinctive black, white and red birds, which use a wide variety of habitats for feeding, shelter, nesting, lekking and rearing chicks, are now on the RSPB red list of the most endangered birds.