Ruffed Grouse

Bonasa umbellus

The Ruffed Grouse is the most widespread and common grouse, and can be found throughout much of Canada, the extreme northern U.S., and higher elevations in the U.S.  An extremely low-pitched "drumming" sound is given by the male in spring, and can be heard over half a mile away.  Two color morphs exist, the more common gray morph, and the red morph (which is found primarily in the Appalachians, and the Pacific Northwest). 

Habitat: Can be found in a variety of forest types, but generally prefers mixed forests of conifer (for shelter) and deciduous (for foraging).  On occasion they can be found in pure conifer forest.

Diet: The majority of the diet is plant material, including seeds, berries, leaves, buds, flowers, and fresh shoots.  They will also eat insects, spiders, snails, and occasionally small reptiles or amphibians.

Behavior: Will forage on the ground, in shrubs, or even high in trees.  They can often be quite tame.

Nesting: May through July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Ruffed Grouse Call

Migration: A semi-permanent resident, with birds making short moves between more open areas during breeding season to denser cover in the winter.

Similar Species: Blue Grouse, Spruce Grouse

Conservation Status: Generally stable throughout its range, with natural local population fluctuation.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Ruffed Grouse

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Ruffed Grouse

3) eNature.com: Ruffed Grouse

Photo Information: December 14th, 2005 - Sax-Zim Bog in Minnesota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Ruffed Grouse photos.