Ruffed Grouse

Intricately patterned plumage varies from cold gray to rich reddish-brown. Typically shy and difficult to see well. Often flushed from the forest floor, exploding into the air with a startling burst of wingbeats and then gliding down towards the next hiding place. Sometimes ventures onto roadsides to pick up grit. In spring, males beat their wings to produce a distinctive low-pitched drumming sound. Especially fond of forested areas with dense understory and secondary growth.