Ruffed Grouse 1

At this time of year many northland creatures are in search of a mate. I enjoy photographing the male ruffed grouse. Over the years I have used blinds when attempting to sneak up to these wary birds. Most stop drumming if you get too close.

ruffedgrouse

Ruffed Grouse 2

Last year I found one ruffed grouse that is very tolerant of people. He would let me get close without a blind. Last week a late spring snowstorm dropped 6 inches of wet heavy snow on the North Shore. When I checked to see if this particular male had survived another year, the snow didn’t seem to bother the grouse at all. He couldn’t find his log so he was drumming on top of a snow drift.

ruffedgrouse

Ruffed Grouse 3

It wasn’t long before the snow began to melt so he could drum on his log.

ruffedgrouse

Ruffed Grouse 4

Male grouse drum to tell other males that this is their territory and to stay away. They also drum to attract any females in the area. While drumming they puff up their chest and look very proud. When they are finished drumming, they look around to see if they have been successful in attracting a female.

ruffedgrouse

Ruffed Grouse 5

I have included this photo so you can see just how close I can get to this grouse. I have sat on the log next to him about five times now. When the wind going through the feathers creates the drumming sound it can be heard for a quarter mile. It is amazing when you experience it this close. You not only hear and feel the wind from the wings but also the vibrations through the log.

drumminglog