Both the Spruce Grouse and the ruffed grouse are medium-sized grouse species found in North America. They occupy similar forest habitats and have some physical similarities, but there are several key differences between these two species of grouse.
Range and Habitat
The Spruce Grouse has a more northerly distribution than the ruffed grouse. The Spruce Grouse is found across Canada, Alaska, and the northern parts of the contiguous United States. Its range extends as far south as northern California, Colorado, Michigan, and New England. In contrast, the ruffed grouse has a more southerly range, extending throughout much of the eastern and midwestern United States and only marginally into Canada.
In terms of habitat, the Spruce Grouse is most strongly associated with coniferous forests, especially spruce and fir. It relies on the cover and food provided by these evergreen trees. The ruffed grouse also inhabits deciduous and mixed forests across much of its range. However, it is less specialized in its habitat usage than the Spruce Grouse.
Physical Description
Both species are medium-sized grouse with feathered legs and toes. However, the plumage differs noticeably between the two species.
The Spruce Grouse is grayish-brown overall with black and white patterning on the underparts. It has a red patch of bare skin above its eyes. Its tail is long and rounded.
The ruffed grouse has more distinct barring and markings in its plumage. It has a brownish-gray body with black ruffs around its neck. The tail is broad and flat with a black band near the end.
In terms of size, the Spruce Grouse is slightly larger on average than the ruffed grouse. The Spruce Grouse ranges from 16 to 19 inches in length with a wingspan of 20 to 25 inches. It weighs 1 to 2 pounds. The ruffed grouse measures 15 to 17 inches in length with a 20 to 22 inch wingspan. It weighs 1 to 1.5 pounds.
Behavior
Both the Spruce Grouse and ruffed grouse spend most of their time on the ground, foraging among the forest understory. When approached, they may explode upward into short, fast flight to reach a tree branch and avoid danger.
One behavioral difference is that Spruce Grouse are more likely to rely on their camouflage and hold tight rather than flush. Ruffed grouse more readily take to the air when startled. On the ground, ruffed grouse can burst into flight by beating their wings together to create noise and momentum.
Both species walk throughout the day while foraging, but spend nights roosting up in trees. In winter, Spruce Grouse and ruffed grouse will burrow into soft snow to keep warm during frigid nights.
Diet
The Spruce Grouse and ruffed grouse are both opportunistic generalists when it comes to diet. They will eat various seeds, buds, leaves, berries, and some insects. However, their preferred foods differ based on their dominant forest habitats.
Spruce Grouse rely heavily on evergreen needles from spruce, fir, and pine trees. They also consume fruits like berries from juniper and crowberry. Ruffed grouse have a strong preference for aspens and other deciduous trees and shrubs. Common foods include buds, catkins, leaves, fruits, twigs, and seeds from these sources.
Reproduction
Mating and nesting habits are fairly similar between Spruce Grouse and ruffed grouse. In early spring, males of both species establish territories and perform courtship displays to attract females. These elaborate displays involve strutting, tail-fanning, and drumming sounds.
Nesting occurs on the ground in dense vegetation. The female incubates the eggs and cares for the precocial young. Spruce Grouse typically have smaller clutch sizes, with 5 to 8 eggs per clutch. Ruffed grouse produce larger clutches of around 10 to 12 eggs.
A notable difference is that male Spruce Grouse participate in rearing the young, while male ruffed grouse do not. Spruce Grouse chicks will stay with the adult male for protection and guidance while the female initiates a second brood.
Population Status
Both species have declined regionally due to habitat loss, but remain common and widespread overall.
The Spruce Grouse is abundant and resilient across the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska. Its numbers have decreased in the southern parts of its range due to logging and habitat changes. It is still common enough to allow regulated hunting in most areas.
The ruffed grouse has fared relatively well and even expanded its range westward as forests were cleared for agriculture. However, it has declined in some eastern regions. Its populations fluctuate in roughly 10-year cycles for reasons not fully understood.
Key Differences
Characteristic | Spruce Grouse | Ruffed Grouse |
---|---|---|
Range | Canada and northern U.S. | Eastern and midwestern U.S., southern Canada |
Habitat | Coniferous forests | Deciduous and mixed forests |
Coloration | Grayish-brown with black and white markings | Brownish-gray with black ruffs |
Size | 16-19 in., 1-2 lbs | 15-17 in., 1-1.5 lbs |
Diet | Conifer needles and fruits | Deciduous buds, seeds, fruits |
Clutch Size | 5-8 eggs | 10-12 eggs |
Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Conclusion
In summary, the Spruce Grouse and ruffed grouse occupy overlapping ranges and habitats in North America, but differ in their plumage, size, distribution, preferred foods, and other traits. The Spruce Grouse is more boreal and associated with conifers, while the ruffed grouse thrives in deciduous and mixed forests further south. Both remain fairly common game birds, though habitat loss has caused some declines, especially for the Spruce Grouse in the southern parts of its range.