Caucasian Grouse
NameCaucasian Grouse
Common NameCaucasian Grouse
Scientific NameLyrurus mlokosiewiczi
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)64
Length (cm)52.5
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely glossy black with prominent bright red wattles above the eyes and a white patch on the wing. Their tail is deeply forked, forming a lyre shape. Females are cryptically barred brown and black, with a less pronounced tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include hissing, bubbling, and whistling sounds, particularly during the male's courtship displays at leks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Caucasus Mountains, found in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, Turkey, and Armenia.
Identifying FeaturesMale's glossy black plumage, Bright red supraorbital wattles, Lyre-shaped tail in males, White wing patch (visible on males), Inhabits high-altitude mountain grasslands
Description
The Caucasian Grouse is a medium-sized grouse, with males displaying striking glossy black plumage and a distinctive lyre-shaped tail. They inhabit subalpine and alpine meadows, feeding on vegetation and insects. Males perform elaborate lekking displays during the breeding season.
