GROUSE FAMILY: Lords of the Dance
Birds of the Northern Hemisphere, Grouse Family (Tetraonidae) are relatives of Pheasants and other Game Birds. Compact in shape, these Birds have fowl-like bodies. Another characteristic of Grouse is their feathered toes and nostrils. In addition, Grouse (except for Willow Ptarmigan) are polygamous.
What Grouse are best known for are their rituals of the Lek. Some Leks (dance grounds) have been used by generations of Birds. Taking turns, Male Grouse strut and put on elaborate dances. Female Grouse attach Themselves to the most vigorous dancer. Meanwhile, Spruce Grouse defends his own individual Lek, and Females go to Him there.
Male Grouse dance to impress. Raising his long tail, Spruce Grouse struts about. In the early mornings, Prairie Chicken issues his booming calls across the North American Prairies. Inflating his throat sacs, Sage Grouse gives a whip-like crack for all to hear. Meanwhile, in the North Woods, Ruffled Grouse drums loudly. The most impressive dancer of all is Capercaillie of Eurasia. Singing while leaping and strutting, He entices Female Grouse to join Him.
Male Grouse is the Lord of the Dance. He commands the attention of all as He drums, struts, and leaps. Express yourself through the dance. Move your body and come alive!
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Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers
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