Grouse - Populations

Populations

Grouse make up a considerable part of the vertebrate biomass in the Arctic and Subarctic. Their numbers may fall sharply in years of bad weather or high predator populations—significant grouse populations are a major food source for lynx, foxes, martens, and birds of prey. However, because of their large clutches, they can recover quickly.

The three tundra species have maintained their former numbers. The prairie and forest species have declined greatly because of habitat loss, though popular game birds such as the Red Grouse and the Ruffed Grouse have benefited from habitat management. Most grouse species are listed by the IUCN as "least concern" or "near threatened", but the Greater and Lesser Prairie Chicken are listed as "vulnerable" and the Gunnison Grouse is listed as "endangered". Some subspecies, such at Attwater's Prairie Chicken and the Cantabrian Capercaillie, and some national and regional populations are also in danger.