Help Wanted:Volunteer Observers Needed for Mountain Grouse Population Study (Poster)

Abstract

Montana State University in conjunction with Montana, Fish, Wildlife and Parks is developing a population monitoring program for mountain grouse. Species of interest include dusky and ruffed grouse, which are found in montane conifer forests throughout western Montana. Males of both species engage in courtship displays during spring that increase the probability of detecting an individual. Dusky grouse produce a hooting noise that can be heard within 50-100 meters and ruffed grouse produce a drumming noise that is audible up to 200 meters. We are looking for volunteers interested in assisting with surveys during the sampling period. Surveys will occur between 25 April-25 May during early morning hours. Survey methods may include point counts and walking transect routes that occur along forest service roads or trails. Point counts will consist of going to multiple locations (5) along a survey route and recording all grouse detections within a 4 minute time period. If interested in spending a few mornings this spring hiking and looking or listening for mountain grouse, please let us know!