The largest of the North American Grouse, the Greater Sage Grouse and the very similar Gunnison Sage Grouse were just recently split into two separate species, when it was discovered that Gunnison Sage Grouse (not found in South Dakota) were genetically distinct and had different breeding displays and calls. Greater Sage Grouse have spectacular spring mating displays on their leks (traditional breeding grounds), with male birds struting and rapidly inflating and deflating the large air sacs in their breast (see photo to the right). Sage Grouse are heavily dependent on sagebrush habitat, and quickly disappear from areas where this habitat is converted to agricultural fields or grasslands for grazing. A female is depicted in the photo on the right.
Habitat
Only found in habitats with sagebrush in the vicinity, including open plains, mountain valleys, mountainsides, and high mesas.
Diet
Relies very heavily on leaves and fresh shoots of sagebrush, especially during the fall and winter. Will eat other leaves, flowers, buds, and fresh shoots in other seasons, and also consumes some insects during summer months.
Nesting
May and June. The nest is a shallow scrape in the ground, lined with sparse bits of vegetation. It is usually placed under a sagebrush plant, or at the base of other vegetation. The female usually lays between 7 and 9 eggs, and she alone incubates them. After the eggs hatch, the young quickly leave the nest. They are tended to by the female, but find their own food.
Song
Courting males make loud popping sounds from inflated air sacs. When flushed, makes a cuk-cuk-cuk call.
Migration
Generally a permanent resident throughout its range, although birds at higher elevations will move to lower elevations in the winter.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Greater Sage Grouse sightings
Similar Species
Gunnison Sage Grouse , not found in South Dakota.
Conservation Status
Has disappeared from much of its former range. Destruction of sagebrush habitat in much of the west has taken a heavy toll on this species and others that depend on these unique habitats. Declines in population and range are continuing. The IUCN currently lists the Greater Sage Grouse as "Near Threatened".
Further Information
- eBird - Greater Sage Grouse
- Audubon Field Guide - Greater Sage Grouse
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Greater Sage Grouse
Photo Information
July 23rd, 2012 - Harding County, South Dakota - Terry Sohl
