Western Capercaillie
NameWestern Capercaillie
Common NameWestern Capercaillie
Scientific NameTetrao urogallus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)4000
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly dark, iridescent blue-black with a dark green breast, a prominent red wattle above the eye, and a long, rounded tail that can be fanned during display. Females are smaller, cryptically patterned with barred brown, black, and grey plumage, and a distinctive rufous-orange patch on the breast.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a complex lekking call during courtship, consisting of a series of 'knocking' or 'popping' sounds, followed by a 'gurgling' or 'scraping' sound, and ending with a 'cork-pulling' or 'whetting' sound. Females have a quieter 'gobbling' or 'clucking' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, taiga
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Palearctic region, from western Europe (including parts of Scotland, Scandinavia, and central Europe) eastward through Russia and into Siberia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size (especially males), Sexual dimorphism (dark, iridescent male; barred brown female), Male's fanned tail during display, Male's red wattle above eye, Female's rufous breast patch, Forest dwelling in snowy environments
Description
The Western Capercaillie is the largest member of the grouse family, known for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males are much larger and darker, engaging in elaborate lekking displays to attract females in coniferous forests.
