Dendragapus – Dusky & Sooty grouse

Commonly known as blue grouse, are members of this genus inhabiting conifers and mixed forests

The genus of two large grouses, found in mountainous ranges of North America and Eurasia. Based on these birds’ morphology, behavior, and vocalization, Dusky grouse and Sooty grouse are accepted as two different species sharing the same genus. The long square tail of adults is grey at the end and has a dark purple or yellow throat air sac. Females of both species are dark brownish and have white marks on their underparts.

They make nests on the ground hidden under a log or shrub. Birds do not migrate and reside permanently in their inhabited area. They have an odd habit of migrating to higher altitudes during winter.