Grouse (Tetraonidae)

 

The grouse (7-8 genera, and 18-20 species) are treated as a family of their own or included in the Phasianidae (as Tetraoninae). They inhabit temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Grouse have feathered nostrils, legs feathered to the toes, and, unlike other Galliformes, lack spurs. Males are bigger than females, and often exhibit sexual dimorphism. Most species are polygamous, and have elaborate courtship display, often at leks. The nest is a shallow depression on the ground lined with plant material. The clutch contains 5-14 eggs. Incubation lasts 21-28 days. The young are precocial and leave the nest immediately after hatching. Most species are resident, but the ptarmigan and the prairie-chickens are short-distance migrants. The Tetraonidae feed mainly on buds, catkins, leaves (including conifer needles), and twigs; the hatchlings eat insects and other invertebrates. Grouse are game species, and are hunted heavily.

 

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