A Ruffed Grouse visited today. She was under the deck, picking up the seeds that had been knocked off the railing by the smaller birds. She didn't stick around very long, just long enough for two or three blurry pics.
The description at the Cornell Ornithology site is so true: "Many people's first experience with the Ruffed Grouse is when it explodes from the forest floor in a flurry of wings. Often, it's gone before they can turn around. The grouse's cryptic coloration and slow, deliberate walk make it virtually invisible."
Wrapping is done. The turkey is thawing. Some baking to do. Forget the house work.. Have a great Christmas Eve eve everyone! Many thanks for dropping by at such a busy time.
This is one of those photos that one is very lucky to catch because these guys are very fast on the getaway! So congrats to you, Anne for catching a fabulous photo. He's beautiful .. and your clarity and color are incredible.
When we had Thanksgiving at the cottage, one of these guys came flying out of the bush. It then settled down right next to our trailer and just ate and looked at us. I was quite surprised it wasn't scared of us! Great shot - they're hard to capture.
You are amazing! We had a lot of ruffed grouse on our farm in New York. They are getting scarse now. What a wonderful picture! His beady little eye is looking right at you. I haven't seen one in a long time.
Very interesting bird that I don't get to see where I live. Fabulous shot, Anne and love how he blends in with the surroundings! Sounds like you're well on your way to preparing for a fun day. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.
I used to backpack alot. My friends would say "Oh, I am afraid of bears...did you ever see a bear?" Or, "I would be too afraid of snakes." I never stumbled upon a bear or a snake, but one day, we did disturb one of these grouse...she had eggs or babies...I forget which. It was loud and scary!
Fantastic capture, well done.
awesome catch!!
Hope poppa has a great present planned for you