King Charles has been left livid over dwindling pheasant numbers at his Sandringham estate that threaten to cancel the traditional Boxing Day shoot.
The 76-year-old monarch was said to be furious following a series of blunders that have left game bird populations in serious decline at the Norfolk estate.
The annual Boxing Day shoot is considered a firm family favourite and provides a rare chance for royal family bonding.
However, there are now genuine fears that royals will be forced to keep their powder dry this year as the cherished tradition hangs in the balance.
King Charles is reportedly furious that this year's Sandringham pheasant shoot may have to be cancelled
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A long-serving gamekeeper who ran the estate's game for years has been dismissed following the furore.
The keeper was shown the door after what sources described as a total failure in maintaining adequate bird numbers.
"It was a total c**k-up. No birds, no bang, just red faces," a source told The Sun. "The King wasn't having it."
Another insider added humorously: "Let's just say he's well and truly plucked off."
A shortage of pheasant's is putting the royal tradition in jeopardy
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The dismissal represents a severe measure taken by the monarch after receiving the unpleasant news about the major blunder affecting the estate's shooting capabilities.
Charles' commitment to eco-friendly practices is thought to have contributed to the challenging situation at Sandringham, The Sun reported.
His Majesty, who backs traditional countryside practices, has been reluctant to release birds from breeders to boost numbers on the estate.
Maintaining a more sustainable wild shoot has proved difficult, with the monarch's preference for natural populations over artificially bred birds leaving pheasant numbers in continued decline.
The Boxing Day shoot is one of many beloved festive Royal Family traditions
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The Boxing Day shoot tradition now faces genuine uncertainty, with sources suggesting the event could be called off entirely this year.
Sandringham's annual hunt for pheasants and partridges at the Norfolk estate has existed in the royal household for generations and is seen as a key family bonding opportunity.
It comes as King Charles is expanding the workforce at his Sandringham Estate, with the royal residence announcing multiple new job openings.
The Norfolk estate team revealed on Thursday that they are recruiting for several positions, including both permanent and temporary roles for the upcoming busy season.
The King has also recently sought new staff at the Sandringham estate
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The 76-year-old monarch, who already employs numerous staff across his royal residences, is now seeking additional help to maintain the high standards expected at Sandringham.
The recruitment drive was announced via Instagram Stories, highlighting the need for more personnel.
The job advertisements include a restaurant team leader position, where the job specification states: "Excellent service is your primary responsibility at Sandringham."
Several housekeeping assistant roles are also available, alongside various positions within the catering department described as temporary and seasonal.
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A former Sandringham royal retreat has been converted into a plush holiday rental home by Charles
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The King has also recently transformed a royal retreat at Sandringham into a luxury holiday rental available to the public.
The Folly, a historic property on the Norfolk estate, can now be booked by holidaymakers for £6,300 per week during school holidays, allowing visitors to experience accommodation once reserved for royalty.
The turreted Victorian house was once the love-nest of Edward VII and his mistress Lillie Langtry.
Located in the private woodland of the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, the three-bedroom property has been refurbished to high standards whilst maintaining its historical significance and can accommodate up to six guests.