An evaluation of thinning to improve habitat for capercaillie ( Tetrao urogallus )

•Bilberry cover increased after five years in thinned Scots pine plantations.•Small patch clearfelling did not lead to losses in bilberry cover over five years.•Results support use of published thinning prescriptions for bilberry enhancement.•Thinning prescriptions suggest a basal area of >22 to <31m2ha−1 as a target.•Such basal areas can be achieved in Scots pine stands managed for timber.