Effects of Radio-Marking on Behavior, Movements, and Survival of Spruce Grouse

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Abstract
Franklin''s spruce grouse (Canachites canadensis franklinii) were radio-marked in southwestern Alberta [Canada] during spring and summer 1974 and from winter through autumn 1975. Postrelease observations of marked grouse based on maintenance and reproductive activities indicated birds readily adjusted to properly fitted radio-packages. Furthermore, seasonal daily movements of radio-marked and leg-banded cohorts were similar; the mean difference between groups ranged from 3 m in winter to 29 m in summer. Mortality of radio-marked females coincided with loss of leg-banded females and was highest during brood rearing and incubation. Additional stress related to radio-marking may have contributed to these losses. Six intact birds were recovered in the field; 4 of them exhibited renal gout. The relationship, if any, among renal gout, radio-marking and death remains uncertain.

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