Capercaillie

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NameCapercaillie

Common NameWestern Capercaillie

Scientific NameTetrao urogallus

FamilyPhasianidae

Wingspan (cm)107.5

Length (cm)85

Weight (g)4000

Plumage DetailsAdult males have dark, iridescent blue-green plumage on the breast, a dark brown back, and a long, fanned black tail. They feature a distinctive white patch on the shoulder/wing bend and bright red wattles above the eyes, with a pale, strong bill.

Vocalization / CallMales perform a complex lekking display, involving a series of distinct calls: a 'tapping' or 'clicking' sound, followed by a 'bubbling' or 'gurgling' phase, and culminating in a loud 'popping' or 'cork-pulling' sound.

Primary Dietomnivore

Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, taiga

Conservation Statusleast-concern

Geographic RangeFound across northern Europe and Asia, from Scotland and Scandinavia eastward through Russia to Siberia, inhabiting suitable forest environments.

Identifying Featureslarge size, dark iridescent plumage (males), red wattle above eye (males), white shoulder patch (males), pale, strong bill, long fanned tail (males)

Description

The Western Capercaillie is the largest member of the grouse family, known for its impressive size and elaborate mating displays. Males exhibit striking dark plumage with iridescent highlights and prominent red wattles, contrasting with the more camouflaged females. These forest-dwelling birds primarily feed on plant matter, especially conifer needles.

Related Bird species

Tufted Titmouse

Shoebill

Ivory Gull

Adélie Penguin

Winter Wren

North Island Brown Kiwi