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We investigated the effects of human activities on the behaviour of great bustards (Otis tarda) in a Special Protection Area in central Spain. We recorded 532 disturbances, at a rate of 0.93 disturbances per hour, a high value compared to other studies. Escape (flight/running) was observed more often than alert. Flight was more frequent than running. Car traffic and walkers were the main sources of disturbance. Motorcyclists, dogs, helicopters and aeroplanes were also harmful in relation to their abundance and time of permanence. Farming and shepherding produced few disturbances and usually did not cause a flight response. These activities are thus considered compatible with the conservation of the great bustards. Hunting caused an increase in the frequency of disturbance on weekends and holidays with respect to working days. We propose access restrictions to car traffic and helicopters/ airplanes and hunting limitations in those areas more frequently used by the species.

In this study, we examine the effects of habitat fragmentation on the genetic structure of the Cantabrian capercaillie Tetrao urogallus cantabricus, based on eight microsatellite loci in non‐invasive samples collected across its entire distribution range in northern Spain. For this purpose, we used Bayesian clustering methods and landscape connectivity analyses. We found low genetic diversity and significant genetic differentiation across the subspecies distribution range. Based on the isolation‐by‐distance pattern observed, we hypothesized that the low dispersal of the species and the habitat configuration might be shaping the genetic structure of Cantabrian capercaillie, and cause reduced gene flow and diversity of some areas. Three genetic clusters were inferred, one in the northern and two in the southern slope of the Cantabrian Mountains. Our results suggest that small but abundant forest patches on the northern slope of the Cantabrian range do not seem to represent a barrier to gene flow, whereas the more isolated forests in the southern Cantabrian Mountains do represent such a barrier. This result was not concordant with the structure proposed based on lek occupation patterns. Conservation strategies should include restoration of forest connectivity to the extent possible.

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