Habitat Selection in Blue Grouse

Abstract
Blue Grouse (Dendragapus obscurus fuliginosus) were shot and observed in very open and very dense cover on a portion of breeding range near Middle Quinsam Lake, Vancouver Island. New adult and yearling grouse selected the open type of vegetation. There was no evidence that grouse forced others from a preferred to a less-preferred type of cover. Within open cover, hooting males selected heights of land and established territories. Yearling males were attracted by territorial males. The attraction of yearlings to hooting males probably perpetuates the use of a territory. Lone hens were attracted by territorial males. Hens with brood moved over the breeding range independently of territorial males or their territories. Blue Grouse apparently select their habitat on the breeding range in spring and respond to the structure of the vegetation. The breeding habitat of blue grouse may be defined as open and dry, with shrubs and herbs interspersed with bare ground. The winter range is in montane forest, apparently in the parkland coniferous stands of the alpine, subalpine ecotone, and open ridges in subalpine forest. The habitat selection of blue grouse may help determine population. Habitat selection in this species may be partly explained by an evolutionary origin from prairie-dwelling grouse. They seem adapted to dry, open habitat in a number of ways. These include an innate response to open habitat, and aspects of behavior, color, form, and the economical use of water.