Summary:

The male Ruffed Grouse stands on a resonant fallen log in the shelter of a brushy thicket, thumping the air with his wings. He raises them and – cupping them forward – beats the air, slowly at first, then faster, creating a reverberating drum roll. This announces his territory and his desire for a mate. The name “Ruffed” derives from the male’s long neck feathers which, in display to the female, flex outward to form a thick neck ruff.

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