Willow Grouse
Lagopus lagopus
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<birdfyi-bird slug="lagopus-lagopus"></birdfyi-bird>The Willow Grouse (Lagopus lagopus) is a bird species in the family Phasianidae (pheasants & partridges), within the order Galliformes (gamebirds). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 39.1 cm and a weight of 595.4 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A medium-sized grouse (~595 g) of family Phasianidae, turning all-white in winter except for black tail feathers. Inhabits boreal forests, tundra, and moorlands across the circumpolar north in Eurasia and North America. Feeds on willow and birch buds, catkins, berries, and leaves. Least Concern; circumpolar distribution makes it one of the world's most abundant and widespread grouse species.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 39.1 cm | 15.4 in |
| Weight | 595.4166666666666 g | 21.00 oz |
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Circumpolar breeder in Arctic and boreal tundra of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters south to temperate grasslands and shrubland.
Diet & Feeding
Eats willow and birch buds, catkins, and shoots in winter; berries, seeds, flowers, and insects in summer. Arctic and subarctic specialist.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC. Incubation: 21-23 days.
Clutch Size
3-14
Sound
Song
Loud, laughing 'kow-kow-kow-karrr' cackle from males on tundra; raucous and carrying. Alarm is a sharp repetitive 'kek'. Female gives low clucks near nest; male produces barking territorial call.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Phasianidae (Pheasants & Partridges) |
| Genus | Lagopus |
| Species | Lagopus lagopus |
Distribution
Willow Grouse has been recorded in 5 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Willow Grouse eat?
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What does the Willow Grouse sound like?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Phasianidae family