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Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus)
Uses

Grouse are popular with hunters. Although a large portion of the grouse harvest occurs incidental to other hunting, some specialized methods are used in taking the individual species. One of the more rewarding and sporting means of hunting sooty grouse is to stalk “hooting” males in April and May. Spruce grouse hunters generally try to be out on the clear frosty mornings of September and October, when birds are seeking grit at locations where bare soil or gravel is exposed. Ruffed grouse and sharp-tails are more difficult to hunt, unless one has a dog. However, these species can sometimes be found “budding” in the tops of aspens and birches in late fall and winter.