The
Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) is a slightly crested
greyish brown bird (17 inches) with a fan-like tail banded with
black and with dark brown "ruffs" on the sides of the
neck. During courtship, the male flaps his wings making a very
distinct drumming sound. These birds inhabit open woods with
clearings that have dense undergrowth, along ravines and streams.
The nest is made on the ground under a
bush. It is just a depression in the ground lined with leaves
and feathers. There are from 9 to 12 
buff colored eggs, either plain or spotted with
brown. The incubation period is about 24 days.
The Ruffed Grouse can be found from Alaska
to California, Wyoming, Minnesota, Missouri and the Carolinas,
in the Appalachians to Georgia.
During the winter months these birds feed
on buds and needles in coniferous trees and during the summer
they feed on insects, seeds, and fruits.
The little Ruffed Grouse shown at
right is about 6 inches long. Wild Republic, maker of these birds,
has joined hands with the National Audubon Society to create
this line of birds. Each bird's lifelike design and detailing
is the result of input from Audubon. Additionally the sounds
in each toy are authentic bird songs provided by The Cornell
Lab of Ornithology. Wild Republic's affiliation with these two
bird organizations emphasizes its commitment to nature conservation.
Check the Gift Shop
to see if there are any Ruffed Grouse in stock.
