Hazel Grouse
NameHazel Grouse
Common NameHazel Grouse
Scientific NameTetrastes bonasia
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)51
Length (cm)37
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsMales feature a prominent erectile crest, a black throat patch bordered by white, and a mottled grey-brown body with white spots and chestnut markings on the flanks. Females are similar but lack the distinct black throat patch and have a less prominent crest. Both sexes have a grey tail with a broad black subterminal band and white tips.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a distinctive high-pitched, whistling song, often described as a 'tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee'. Females have a softer, purring call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the boreal and temperate forests of Eurasia, from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe eastward across Russia to Siberia, China, Korea, and Japan.
Identifying FeaturesErectile crest, Black throat patch bordered by white (male), Mottled grey-brown plumage with chestnut and white markings, Grey tail with broad black subterminal band and white tips, Small size for a grouse
Description
The Hazel Grouse is a small, cryptically patterned forest bird known for its shy nature. It typically inhabits dense coniferous or mixed woodlands, where its plumage provides excellent camouflage against the forest floor and branches.
