Siberian Spruce Grouse

Siberian Spruce Grouse

 

(Falcipennis falcipennis), a bird of the Tetraonidae family. Weighing about 600 grams, it is slightly larger than the hazel hen. Its coloration has brown, black, and white tones. In the male the tips of the outer flying feathers are narrowed. It inhabits the deep forest of south-eastern Siberia and Sakhalin. It is a permanent resident, nesting on the ground and laying eight eggs. It feeds on berries, leaves, and shoots and, in winter, on coniferous needles. It is a very trusting and incautious bird. The Siberian spruce grouse has never been numerous, and its commercial importance is slight.