Ruffed Grouse

The ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) is a medium-sized forest grouse found year-round in Banff National Park; subalpine and montane forests, particularly along edges and in aspen–conifer mixes. The closely related spruce grouse prefers denser, all-conifer forest and is the bird more often seen on the wetter, shadier upper trails.

Identification

Cryptically patterned gray or reddish-brown; crested head; fan-shaped tail with a dark band. Males perform a “drumming” display in spring; beating wings to create a low thumping sound that carries through the forest. Smaller than ptarmigan; prefers forest, not alpine.

Habitat and diet

Favours deciduous–conifer edges, aspen groves, and riparian willow. Feeds on buds, catkins, needles, berries, and insects. Often bursts from cover when approached; startling hikers and skiers.

Behaviour

Solitary or in small family groups. Relies on camouflage; may freeze rather than flush. In winter, roosts in snow burrows for insulation.

Viewing

Listen for drumming in spring; watch for explosive flushes on forest trails. Maintain distance; avoid disturbing during nesting (May–June).

Runs

Upper Grouse and Lower Grouse on the Front Side were formerly “Shoot the Muscle” (STM); the transition to “Grouse” aligned with Parks Canada ecological awareness. The runs are named after the grouse family generally and may host both ruffed and spruce grouse.