Ruffed Grouse Of North America

Ruffed Grouse Of North America

Ruffed Grouse Of North America

Ruffed Grouse are one of ten species of grouse that are native to North America and are one of the smaller birds in the group, ranging from 17 to 25 oz.

These game birds are the most widely distributed resident in North America, living in

All of the Canadian Provinces and in thirty-eight states.

Red-phased grouse become more prevalent in milder climates, and the gray birds are more abundant where winter climates are more severe. Ruffed Grouse are brownish colored birds larger than pigeons, living their entire lives in wooded areas. The males are usually slightly larger than the females.

The name "Ruffed" derived it name from some long, shiny, black or chocolate colored neck feathers that are most prominent on the male.

When the male is in full display in defense of his territory, or showing off to a hen, these feathers are extended into a spectacular ruff, which, together with a full fanned tail, makes him look twice his normal size. Drumming occurs throughout the year, so long as his "log" is not under snow. In the spring, drumming occurs more frequent and longer as the male grouse reveals his location to hens seeking a mate.

The male grouse proclaims his property rights by engaging in a "drumming" display. This sound is made by beating his wings against the air to create a vacuum. The drummer usually stands on a log, stone or mound of dirt when drumming, and this object is called a "drumming log." He does not strike the log to make the noise, he only uses the "drumming log" as the stage for his display.

Courtship is a brief event then the hen wanders away in search of a nesting site, and there is no further association between the male grouse and his mate. The brood of chicks she produces are fully raised by her.

During the winter, the Ruffed Grouse may dive into soft snow to spend the night where falling snow can hide the evidence of their entry.

A grouse bursting at one's feet from flat snow covered ground can be quite startling thrill.

Ruffed Grouse populations go through 8 to 11 year cycles of increasing and decreasing numbers.

These cycles can be due to predator populations increasing and decreasing

These game birds are sought after by many hunters and present a challenge to the most experienced. You can obtain far more information about Ruffed Grouse from books if you wish to further your knowledge.

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