FAST FACTS Ruffed grouse

Range: Ruffed grouse are the most widely distributed resident game bird in North America, living in all Canadian provinces and in 38 of the 49 states on the continent. Most ruffed grouse live in regions where snow is an important part of the winter scene and consistently covers the ground from late November to late March, early April or later.
The ruffed grouse is a hearty, snow-loving, bud-eating native that thrives during severe winters, which decimate flocks of partridges, quail, pheasants and turkeys.
Description: Ruffed grouse are one of 10 species of grouse native to North America and are one of the smaller birds in the group, ranging from 17 to 25 ounces. They are brownish and somewhat larger than pigeons, living their entire lives in wooded areas. The males are usually slightly larger than the females, although an occasional adult female will exceed a young male in size.
The name ruffed was derived from some long, shiny, black or chocolate-colored neck feathers that are most prominent on the male. When the cock is in full display in defense of his territory or showing off to an interested hen, these feathers are extended into a spectacular ruff that with a full-fanned tail makes him look twice his normal size.
Source: Ruffed Grouse Society