Black Grouse

The postcard doesn't say - but this is a black grouse

Photo: Keijo Penttinen
2013

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The Black Grouse or Blackgame (Tetrao tetrix) is a large game bird in the grouse family.

The male is very distinctive, with black plumage, apart from red wattles and a white wingbar, and a lyre-shaped tail. His song is loud, bubbling and somewhat dove-like.

The female is greyish-brown and has a cackling call. She takes all responsibility for nesting and caring for the chicks, as is typical with gamebirds.