Centrocercus urophasianus
The Greater Sage-Grouse (*Centrocercus urophasianus*) is the largest grouse in North America, a magnificent and obligate inhabitant of the sagebrush steppe. Males are significantly larger and more ornate, measuring 65-75 cm (26-30 in) and weighing 2-3.2 kg (4.4-7.1 lb), while females are 48-58 cm (19-23 in) and 1-1.8 kg (2.2-4.0 lb). Both sexes exhibit cryptic gray-brown mottled plumage, a long, spiky tail, and a black belly, but males are renowned for their elaborate courtship display featur...
An obligate specialist of the arid and semi-arid sagebrush steppe ecosystem, relying entirely on sagebrush species for food and cover. Found primarily at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 meters (4,000 to 10,000 feet).
Feeds predominantly on sagebrush leaves (*Artemisia* spp.) year-round, especially in winter. It also consumes forbs (broad-leaved plants), flowers, and insects, particularly crucial for chick development, foraging by plucking directly from plants.
Sage-Grouse are diurnal, foraging most actively in early morning and late afternoon, often resting within sagebrush plants during midday. Their foraging strategy involves plucking leaves, flowers, and insects directly from vegetation. The species is famous for its elaborate lek mating system, whe...
Historically, the Greater Sage-Grouse ranged across 16 U.S. states and 3 Canadian provinces, but its current distribution is severely contracted. Breeding and year-round populations are now primarily found in the western U.S. states, including Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Colora...
Near Threatened
- The Greater Sage-Grouse relies on sagebrush for 60-100% of its diet, especially in winter, making it an extreme dietary specialist. - Male Sage-Grouse are famous for their elaborate 'lek' displays, where they gather on traditional grounds to perform for females. - During their display, males in...