Firefighters battle through the night as wildfire burns across Cairngorms National Park

The Kapercaillie is a native species that became extinct in Britain in the mid-18th century, but was reintroduced in Perthshire in 1837.

Earlier this year the Scottish government announced an emergency plan to boost numbers in the Cairngorms.

Breeding male capercaillie have increased by 50% since 2020, but their numbers have declined due to habitat loss, eggs being eaten and birds flying into deer fences.

A visitor center that offers guided tours to see free-roaming reindeer in the area said the animals were released into the mountains, adding that “they are not near fire and will keep themselves safe.”

Ross Ewing, from Scottish Land and Estates, said the incident was “clearly serious and fast-moving” and urged the public to keep routes clear for emergency vehicles.

He also encouraged landowners and land managers to take precautionary measures, including the preparation of special fire equipment.

Staff at the Glenmore Outdoor Center near the fire asked people not to travel to the area.

They said: “Follow official advice from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and remain patient with staff whilst the ongoing situation is managed appropriately.”

A Cairngorms National Park Authority spokesman said the fire was “deeply concerning”.

They added: “This incident is a stark reminder of the risks posed by drier, hotter weather, as well as the bushfires we have seen across the UK this week.”