AVIS-IBIS

Birds of Indian Subcontinent

Some Observations of Weather and Brood Behavior in Blue Grouse

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1967
Authors:Zwickel, FC
Journal:The Journal of Wildlife Management
Volume:31
Issue:3
Date Published:1967
ISBN Number:0022541X
Keywords:Dendragapus, Dendragapus obscurus, Phasianidae
Abstract:Two broods of wild blue grouse (Dendragapus obscurus fuliginosus) were observed for a total of nearly 27 hours in 1962, each on two consecutive days, the first day in each case being cold and wet and the second warmer and drier. These broods, plus another for which some data are presented, experienced what is generally considered to be inclement weather for young gallinaceous birds. There was no apparent correlation between periods of brooding and occurrence of rain. Rain and cold, as described here, did not seem to injure chicks directly but did increase the amount of time spent in brooding, and thus shortened the time available for feeding. This too had no apparent effect on the young. It is suggested that young blue grouse are able to cope with the kinds of conditions noted here.
URL:http://www.jstor.org/stable/3798140
Short Title:The Journal of Wildlife Management
Taxonomic name: 
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith