Ruffed Grouse vs Sharp-tailed Grouse

In short

The Ruffed Grouse and Sharp-tailed Grouse are both medium-sized, ground-dwelling birds found in North America, but they can be distinguished by their tail patterns and courtship displays. The Ruffed Grouse has a broad, fan-shaped tail with a dark band near the tip, while the Sharp-tailed Grouse has a pointed tail with white outer feathers. Both species have unique courtship displays: the Ruffed Grouse is known for its drumming, and the Sharp-tailed Grouse performs elaborate dances.

Identification tips

• Tail Shape: Look for the broad, fan-shaped tail with a dark band in Ruffed Grouse versus the pointed tail with white outer feathers in Sharp-tailed Grouse.
• Courtship Displays: Observe the drumming of Ruffed Grouse and the dancing of Sharp-tailed Grouse.
• Habitat: Note the forested habitat of Ruffed Grouse compared to the open grasslands of Sharp-tailed Grouse.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Sharp-tailed Grouse may appear slightly larger due to its longer tail.

Plumage

Ruffed Grouse have mottled gray or red-brown plumage with a distinctive dark band on the tail. Sharp-tailed Grouse have more uniform brown plumage with white spots and a pointed tail with white outer feathers.

Behaviour

Ruffed Grouse are known for their drumming displays, where males beat their wings to create a drumming sound. Sharp-tailed Grouse perform elaborate courtship dances on leks, involving stomping and tail displays.

Habitat

Ruffed Grouse prefer dense, mixed forests with a variety of understory plants. Sharp-tailed Grouse are found in open grasslands and prairies, often near croplands.

Voice

Ruffed Grouse are best known for their drumming sounds, while Sharp-tailed Grouse produce a series of cooing and clucking sounds during their courtship displays.