6 replies to this topic

[Davis Bruce]

This was taken in Yellowstone a couple of days ago. I was thinking Sharp Tailed Grouse initially, but after looking closer I think it is a pair of female Blue Grouse. Anyone out there familiar with these birds that can confirm.

[BigSkyKen]

Any chance you can post a larger picture? The distant bird looks like a Sharpie, but it is difficult to tell without getting a better view. I've posted a Sharp-tailed Grouse for comparison.

[jblakelock]

I can't offer any help IDing which grouse, but the Blue Grouse has been separated into two species: Dusky Grouse (Rocky Mountains) and Sooty Grouse (coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada). One other note: the birding lists for Yellowstone that I could find online don't seem to include Sharp-tailed only Dusky and Ruffed Grouse. And Ebird shows only a few sightings of Sharp-tailed for Yellowstone.

[Ryn]

I think female Blue Grouse is the best guess. I don't think it's light enough for a Sharp Tail. It is somewhat hard to tell in this picture however.

[eripma]

Both are Dusky Grouse.

[Davis Bruce]

This was taken by a cousin and he said he only got this picture before they took off. Thanks for the help all.

[MWM]

I'm reposting the photo, tried to enlarge it to see if that helps...