COVER REQUIREMENTS OF THE GROUSE 



165 



quirements. 



Before turning to another phase of shelter, it is informative to note a few observations 

 on the effect of cover on the distance grouse flush from an observer and on the habits of the 

 bird when reflushed. 



Influences Affecting the Distance Grouse Flush fiuin the Observer 



That grouse are apt to be "tight sitters" when approached, is generally recognized. Their 

 reaction in this respect varies according to the sex, season, weather, age and experience of 

 the bird, type of cover and activity. 



.ROISK OFTEN "SlT TIC.HT" WHEN THKEATENED m DAN(;EK 



Oardtner humji 



Much-hunted grouse generally flush wild. So also do birds when the leaves are falling. 

 Nesting grouse may often be approached to within a few feet as may also be the case when 

 one surprises a female with a young brood. Windy weather makes most birds more wary 

 especially if they are roosting in a tree — a habit whidi is not pronounced under such cir- 

 cumstances. 



Sex, too, makes a difference. Nornialh most females are apt to Hush within 30 feet of 

 a person; males commonly rise at greater distances, though there are many exceptions. 



Throughout the late fall and winter, when trees are bare, birds are more wary unless they 

 are snow roosting. Taking the seasons as a whole, however, ~9\'-t per cent of all birds flushed 

 by the Investigation were within 50 feet of the observer 1 table 168) *. Adults are most likely to 



* See Appendix, p. 810. 



