Dendragapus fuliginosus
The Sooty Grouse, a robust and cryptic game bird of western North America, is recognized by its dark, slate-grey plumage, often appearing nearly black in males. Males are notably larger than females, typically measuring 43-53 cm in length and weighing 1-1.4 kg, while females are 40-47 cm and 0.7-1 kg. Distinctive field marks include the male's inflatable purplish-red neck sacs and bright yellow-orange to reddish eye combs displayed during courtship, along with its characteristic deep 'hooting...
Found primarily in coniferous and mixed forests, often at mid to high elevations, favoring dense stands near clearings or edges for breeding and foraging.
Their diet consists mainly of conifer needles, buds, and twigs, especially in winter, supplemented with berries, seeds, and insects during warmer months. They primarily forage by browsing vegetation on the ground and in trees.
Sooty Grouse are diurnal, spending much of their time foraging on the ground or perching high in trees, especially during winter. Males establish breeding territories in spring, defending them with elaborate vocal displays and visual postures. Their courtship involves the male inflating his purpl...
The Sooty Grouse is endemic to western North America, occupying a relatively narrow but extensive range. Its breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and British Columbia south through Washington, Oregon, and California, reaching its southern limit in the Sierra Nevada and coastal ranges. ...
Least Concern
- The male Sooty Grouse's deep 'hooting' call is so low-frequency that it can be difficult for humans to pinpoint its exact location, often sounding like it's coming from further away than it actually is. - For over a century, the Sooty Grouse and Dusky Grouse were considered a single species, kn...