Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus)

     Photos by Cornell Lab All About Birds

Ruffed Grouse males and females are difficult to tell apart

Male Ruffed Grouse in courtship display

The Ruffed Grouse is one of five grouse found in Canada and the U.S.A.  The Ruffed Grouse and the Spruce Grouse (see Jan.25th blog) are both found across Canada and the upper U.S.A., whereas the Blue Grouse, the Greater Sage Grouse and the Sharp-tailed Grouse are more western and central North American species.

The Ruffed Grouse is rather common in mixed and deciduous woods.   They are usually seen on the ground, but also perch high in trees. 

The National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of Eastern North America says there are two colour morphs, red and gray, and are most apparent by tail colour.   Red morphs predominate in the Appalachian  region, gray morphs in the north.

Please comment if you wish.

BarrytheBirder