The ruffed grouse, a common gamebird in western North Carolina, faces an uncertain future due to environmental conditions, loss of habitat, and various other factors.
The ruffed grouse, a distinctly American bird, is one of the most important game birds of North Carolina. Amundson describes the bird's characteristics, food habits, mating habits, nesting, enemies, management, and game-bird qualities.
Evans with the Southern Appalachian Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society and Ashburn of North Carolina Quail Unlimited discuss recent accomplishments in improving conditions for upland game birds and future directions of their respective organizations.