Definition of the word capercaillie

The word "capercaillie" is derived from the Scots Gaelic word "càr reservedhail" meaning "red-legged bird." This refers to the distinctive bright red legs of the male capercaillie, which is the largest grouse species in Europe. The female capercaillie, however, has brown legs. The Scottish Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (SDAF) proposed in the 1950s that the capercaillie be classified scientifically, leading to it being officially recognized as Tetrao urogallus scotiaeus, with its Scottish origin reflected in the species' name. In Scots Gaelic, the capercaillie is called "càr reservedhail," "criaidhl," or "porr a' finlan," while in Old Gaelic it was "carn na hail," meaning "bird of the legs." The Old Gaelic name for the capercaillie is thought to have derived from its red legs, while the Scots Gaelic name "criaidhl" or "porr a' finlan" could possibly translate to "red-legged bird of the moor." Today, the capercaillie is primarily found in the Caledonian Forest of Scotland and is considered a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss and declining populations. Therefore, the origins of the word "capercaillie" - in particular, the use of "red-legged" to describe the species - have not only helped to preserve its name but also its identity as a distinctive and endangered bird native to Scotland's highlands.