Female Dusky Grouse – Nikon D200, f6.3, 1/1250, ISO 400, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 242mm, natural light, not baited
I photographed this female Dusky Grouse (Dendragapus obscurus) while up in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. Dusky Grouse were once considered “Blue Grouse” and some folks still call them that. This hen was traveling in a small flock of four to five birds as I recall and they were feeding right at the edge of a two lane road. They didn’t appear to be the least bit timid and I was able to take a series of images of them before moving down the curvy mountain road. I hope to photograph them again sometime in the future.
Mia
The grasses make a lovely background.
I really liked the grasses in the background too, thank you!
Great shot, Mia. I love the habitat. Down here we have the Scaled Quail, and it is called also the Blue Quail. I don’t know why that is. I guess maybe that in some light there may be a faint bluish tint.
Bob, I’m not sure why the Dusky Grouse was at one time called the Blue Grouse either. Glad only the names change and that the birds don’t! Thanks for your kind comment on this image.
What a lovely encounter, and beautiful view of her.
Thank you Debbie!
Excellent image! The Grouse camouflages so well with its natural surroundings.
Tammy, I’m lucky that these birds were along the road or they would have been much more difficult to spot. Thanks for your comment on this image.
Neat! I love the camouflaged plumage on Grouse, though I’ve never seen one myself. They still have a very rare and special feel to them. Great shot, thanks for sharing.
Thank you Laurence, I think the plumage is awesome.
He is a beautiful bird. I just love his markings. He looks rather tall too. Carol
I think she is a beautiful bird too Carol and they are rather large birds, compared to others I photograph. Thanks for your comment.