The Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) is a slightly crested greyish brown bird (17 inches) with a fan-like tail banded with black and with dark brown "ruffs" on the sides of the neck. During courtship, the male flaps his wings making a very distinct drumming sound. These birds inhabit open woods with clearings that have dense undergrowth, along ravines and streams.

The nest is made on the ground under a bush. It is just a depression in the ground lined with leaves and feathers. There are from 9 to 12 buff colored eggs, either plain or spotted with brown. The incubation period is about 24 days.

The Ruffed Grouse can be found from Alaska to California, Wyoming, Minnesota, Missouri and the Carolinas, in the Appalachians to Georgia.

During the winter months these birds feed on buds and needles in coniferous trees and during the summer they feed on insects, seeds, and fruits.