Spruce Grouse
Canachites canadensis
The Spruce Grouse (Canachites canadensis) is a uncommon partridges, pheasants, grouse, and alli found in 2 countries. The spruce grouse, also known as Canada grouse, spruce hen or fool hen, is a medium-sized grouse closely associated with the coniferous boreal forests or taiga of North America.
About the Spruce Grouse
The spruce grouse, also known as Canada grouse, spruce hen or fool hen, is a medium-sized grouse closely associated with the coniferous boreal forests or taiga of North America. It is the only member of the genus Canachites.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
Spruce grouse are 38–43 cm (15–17 in) long; males weigh 550–650 g (19–23 oz) and females 450–550 g (16–19 oz). The spruce grouse has a wingspan range of 21.5–22.6 in (55–57 cm). Races vary slightly in plumage, especially in the tail pattern and in the extent of white on the underparts, but in general adult males are mainly grey above and black below, with white spots along the side, and a red patch of bare skin over the eye called the "eyebrow comb".
Where it lives
When to see it
Best months: February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, with peak activity in June. It is a variable species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Spruce Grouse?
- Spruce grouse are 38–43 cm (15–17 in) long; males weigh 550–650 g (19–23 oz) and females 450–550 g (16–19 oz). Full identification notes are on this page.
- Where can you see a Spruce Grouse?
- The Spruce Grouse occurs in 2 countries, including Canada and the United States.
- What birds look similar to a Spruce Grouse?
- The Spruce Grouse is most easily confused with the Sooty Grouse, the Kalij Pheasant and the Black Francolin.
Learn the Spruce Grouse for real
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