Sooty Grouse

Dendragapus fuliginosus

The Sooty Grouse, also known as the Blue Grouse, is a large bird native to the mountainous regions of western North America. It is known for its dark plumage, with males having a distinctive bright yellow throat sac. Sooty Grouse are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter including berries, leaves, and flowers. They are often found in coniferous forests and alpine meadows, where they perform elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season. Sooty Grouse are generally shy and elusive, relying on their cryptic plumage for camouflage. While not currently considered globally threatened, habitat loss and fragmentation are potential concerns for their populations.

Habitat: Coniferous forests and alpine meadows