black grouse

The black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) is a large bird found in western Asia and Europe. Males are black with white wing patches, while females are barred and mottled brown. They are a type of grouse, which are game birds in the family Tetraonidae.12

Male black grouse, also called blackcock, can reach about 55 cm (22 inches) in length and weigh nearly 2 kg (4 pounds). They are known for their iridescent blue-black plumage, white wing bars, and a distinctive lyre-shaped tail. Females, referred to as gray hens, are smaller and display mottled brown coloration.2

During mating season, males gather in groups called leks to display. They inflate red combs over their eyes, spread their tails, and perform a quivering crouch. Some gallinaceous species, including grouse, have reversed sex roles in reproduction, with males primarily handling incubation and feeding of young.23