1606_1342 Franklin's Grouse
I intended to post a shot of this species made last month, but on checking my files I found a better one - from the same location. So here it is. The red eye comb of the male is just... irresistible!
The taxonomy of the Franklin's Grouse has been in flux for some time. The IUCN and the AOS seem to be at odds as to whether it is a subspecies of the Spruce Grouse or a distinct species on its own. Honestly, I couldn't care less. It differs from the Spruce Grouse of the north in that its tail is all black, with white spots.
Like most grouse, they are loathe to fly, and can easily be approached by a slow moving photographer. Apparently they are noted for their territorial wing-clap display, but I've never heard this.
Photographed in Banff National Park, Alberta (Canada). Don't use this image on websites, blogs, or other media without explicit permission ©2016 James R. Page - all rights reserved.
1606_1342 Franklin's Grouse
I intended to post a shot of this species made last month, but on checking my files I found a better one - from the same location. So here it is. The red eye comb of the male is just... irresistible!
The taxonomy of the Franklin's Grouse has been in flux for some time. The IUCN and the AOS seem to be at odds as to whether it is a subspecies of the Spruce Grouse or a distinct species on its own. Honestly, I couldn't care less. It differs from the Spruce Grouse of the north in that its tail is all black, with white spots.
Like most grouse, they are loathe to fly, and can easily be approached by a slow moving photographer. Apparently they are noted for their territorial wing-clap display, but I've never heard this.
Photographed in Banff National Park, Alberta (Canada). Don't use this image on websites, blogs, or other media without explicit permission ©2016 James R. Page - all rights reserved.