Spruce Grouse (Canachites canadensis)

When flushed, this small (38 cm, 15 in. long) grouse will often flutter into a nearby spruce tree where it will sit, and depend only on its coloration for protection. It is commonly called "fool hen" for this apparent lack of fear of people. Cocks and hens are very similar, but hens are barred with more brown on the back. The cocks of both Alberta races have red combs above the eyes that are usually hidden by feathers. The tail of the cock is black, tipped with pale brown.

Franklin's grouse, a variety of spruce grouse, has no brown tip. It has, however, white spots on the sides of the base of the tail.

Found throughout the coniferous forests of northern Alberta and the Rocky Mountains, spruce grouse feed almost entirely on conifer needles in winter. In spring and summer they also eat insects, leaves and berries.

In spring, the cock sets up a territory in a forest opening. As part of his display to attract a hen, he struts about, eye combs inflated and tail feathers erect and fanned. He then flutters from the low bough of a tree to the ground, producing low drumming sounds that end with a sharp wing-clap just before he lands. Hens build nests of leaves and grass, often in moss under spruce trees. The clutch consists of six or seven eggs, mottled light and dark brown. Eggs hatch in about 21 days. Chicks remain with the hen throughout the summer.

Specific season information is provided in the current Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations, available on-line and in hard copy.