Western Capercaillie
NameWestern Capercaillie
Common NameWestern Capercaillie
Scientific NameTetrao urogallus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)107.5
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)3500
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit iridescent dark green to blue-black plumage, a dark brown belly, a prominent red wattle above the eye, and a long, fan-shaped black tail with white spots. Females are smaller and cryptically patterned with barred brown, black, and white plumage for camouflage.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a distinctive lekking call, a complex series of clicks, pops, and gurgles that culminates in a 'cork-popping' sound and a wheezing note. Females have a quieter 'gobbling' or 'clucking' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, mountain forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Palearctic realm, from Western Europe (including Scotland, Scandinavia, and the Alps) through Russia to Siberia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, sexual dimorphism, male iridescent dark plumage, male red wattle, male fan-shaped tail, female cryptic brown plumage, forest habitat
Description
The Western Capercaillie is the largest member of the grouse family, known for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males are significantly larger and more colorful, engaging in elaborate lekking displays during the breeding season in their coniferous forest habitats.
