Ruffed Grouse

The ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) is a medium-sized bird, a member of the grouse family, that graces the forests of North America. It is distinguished by its plump body, short, strong wings, and a tail marked with a broad black band. Exhibiting two color morphs, grey and brown, the ruffed grouse can either blend into the grey-brown forest backdrop or the more uniform brown of the woodland floor.

Identification Tips

When identifying the ruffed grouse, look for the distinctive ruffs on the sides of the neck and a crest atop the head, which can sometimes lie flat. Both sexes are similarly marked, making them challenging to differentiate. However, the presence of a broken subterminal tail band often indicates a female, while males typically have unbroken tail bands. The ruffed grouse's life span averages one year, though some individuals may live up to eleven years.

Habitat

The ruffed grouse favors mixed woodlands, particularly those rich in aspen. It is a ground-dwelling bird that occasionally forages in trees.

Distribution

This non-migratory species ranges from the Appalachian Mountains across Canada to Alaska, making it the most widely distributed game bird in North America.

Behaviour

The ruffed grouse is known for its explosive flight when startled and its unique courtship display. Males perform a drumming sound by beating their wings against the air to create a vacuum, often while standing on a log or stone. This display can be heard for a quarter mile, even through dense forest. The species follows a mysterious population cycle known as the "grouse cycle," which occurs regardless of hunting pressure.

Song & Calls

The ruffed grouse's drumming is its signature sound, starting slowly and accelerating into a rapid thump. This non-vocal acoustic display is unique among grouse.

Breeding

Ruffed grouse are polygynous, with males potentially mating with several females during the breeding season.

Similar Species

The ruffed grouse is sometimes incorrectly referred to as a "partridge" or confused with the grey partridge, a bird of open areas rather than woodlands.

Diet and Feeding

Omnivorous in nature, the ruffed grouse consumes buds, leaves, berries, seeds, and insects. Its diet allows it to adapt to a wide range of habitats.

Conservation status

The ruffed grouse is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, habitat loss and the introduction of the West Nile virus have been contributing to population declines in certain areas.