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Description: Males weigh 4 to 7 pounds and have a distinctive white and black neckband. Females are smaller (2 - 4 pound range). Sage grouse are mostly a dusky, grayish-brown color - perfect for blending in with the habitat. Diet: Feeds on sagebrush during the winter. At other times of the year will feed on leaves, blossoms and buds of plants. Also may eat ants and grasshoppers Breeding and Young: Females incubate 7 - 8 eggs for 25 -27 days. Young are downy and can move about when first hatched. They are tended by the females and can fly when they are 7 - 14 days old. Sage grouse have a distinctive mating ritual. The rituals take place in traditional breeding grounds called "leks." The males spread their plumage, strut, and inflate air sacs located on their breasts. This produces a steady plopping sound. This is done to attract the females and to protect their territory from other males. Interesting and Unique: This large upland game bird was once abundant in sagebrush habitat, but a loss of habitat is affecting the population of the bird. Males waddle when they walk probably because of their size. Hens walk lightly and evenly. These birds gather in the fall to prepare for their migration to lower elevation wintering grounds. |
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Sage
Grouse
