Ruffed Grouse
NameRuffed Grouse
Common NameRuffed Grouse
Scientific NameBonasa umbellus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsPlumage is mottled brown and gray, providing superb camouflage against forest litter. Males possess prominent iridescent black ruffs on the sides of their neck and a broad, fan-shaped tail featuring a distinct dark subterminal band, often rufous or gray depending on the morph.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a distinctive 'drumming' sound by rapidly beating their wings, which starts slowly and accelerates, sounding like a distant motor. They also emit soft clucking, whistling, and hissing sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Canada and the northern United States, extending south through the Appalachian Mountains and into the Rocky Mountains.
Identifying FeaturesProminent black neck ruffs (males), Fan-shaped tail with a dark subterminal band, Cryptic mottled brown and gray plumage, Ground-dwelling behavior, Distinctive drumming sound
Description
The Ruffed Grouse is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird known for its cryptic plumage that provides excellent camouflage. Males are particularly notable for their prominent black neck ruffs and fan-shaped tail, often displayed during courtship or territorial displays, as seen in the image.
