Ruffed Grouse

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Ruffed Grouse
Ruffed Grouse

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(Bonasa umbellus)

Date of admission: Nov 9, 2025.
Reason for admission: Physical Injury.

Patient History:

Ruffed grouse are small, secretive game birds that inhabit forest habitats across Canada and the northern United States. Though widespread, ruffed grouse are elusive and are often difficult to spot. Their small size, slow movements and red-brown plumage allow them to evade predators throughout the forest landscape.

They remain solitary for much of the year, avoiding unwanted attention while foraging beneath the trees.

When ruffed grouse mate in the spring, males put on a distinctive display to attract a femaleā€™s attention. Male grouse will perch themselves on a stump or log and puff up the feathers on their neck, chest and tail. Then, they pump their wings back and forth, creating a loud drumming sound that increases in tempo as the display continues. This display is most frequent during the mating season, but is also used by males in the fall and winter to defend their territories. Drumming is loud enough to travel through thick forest brush and attract curious females, while also warning off other males in search of a partner.Ā 

Ruffed grouse are resident birds with unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in a small territory year-round. These grouse forage from the ground and primarily feed on vegetation. To help them successfully forage during the winter months, ruffed grouse grow small, comb-like structures off the sides of their feet to help them trudge through snow. Ruffed grouse have also evolved strong stomachs that are equipped to digest the tough plant material in tree bark, allowing them to survive off of tree twigs and buds during the colder months when leafy-green vegetation is unavailable.Ā 

This ruffed grouse came into care after they were struck by a car near Sundre, Alberta. Once they had arrived at AIWC, our animal care team identified injuries to their chest and head. Most notably, this grouse had endured trauma to their left eye, which had developed a small ulcer after the vehicle collision. Since their arrival, our team has treated the abrasions on their face with medicated ointment to heal the wound and prevent infection. They have been given plenty of rest, fluids and a healthy game bird diet to help heal the bruising on their chest and resolve the ulcer in their eye. They will remain in care with us until their injuries have resolved, and they can walk and fly without complication.Ā 

Thank you for supporting their care!

Please note:

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