Dusky Blue Grouse

Dusky Grouse 

• Breeding season mid March
• Clutch size 5-10 eggs
• Incubation period 25 days
• 2-3 pounds 

Dusky blues are the second largest grouse species in North America, measuring 17-22 inches in length. Males are a slate or blue-gray color, while females are mottled brown. They often tame quickly and can become fond of their owners.

They range from southeast Alaska and the Northwest Territories through California, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. They are considered a forest grouse and winter at higher elevations, but with the start of the breeding season in mid-March, they move lower to aspen sage areas, subalpine meadows, and creek bottoms.

Housing Requirements: Dusky blues prefer cooler temperatures, but they do well in shaded areas. Provide a wide-ranging habitat with a variety of areas to perch, roost and explore. Include plants native to their natural environment. Use lightweight mesh or wire to cover the top of the enclosure. When threatened, grouse burst into the air, hence a heavy enclosure could cause serious damage to the birds. Grouse need to be housed at a 1-to-1 ratio, no more than 1 pair per pen.

Diet: In the wild, conifer needles make up much of their diet. They also feed on a wide variety of fruits, flowers, and invertebrates.