Female © Alex Lamoreaux
Juvenile © Alex Lamoreaux
Male © Noah Strycker
Adult © Matthew Grube

Sooty Grouse Dendragapus fuliginosus

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Large, dark chickenlike bird found in wooded habitats, usually with conifers and shrubby undergrowth. Typically seen on the ground; easiest to detect in midsummer when females and chicks frequent roadsides and trails. When male displays, ruffles neck feathers to reveal wrinkled yellow skin and makes deep hooting noise, slightly higher pitched than Dusky. Female browner and more intricately patterned. Note large size and relatively long tail. Feeds on plant matter, especially conifer needles. Separate from Dusky Grouse by range.

POWERED BY MERLIN