Appalachian Ruffed Grouse : Ecology and Management

A comprehensive overview of all aspects of grouse ecology and management in the central and southern Appalachians, summarizing findings of the Appalachian Cooperative Grouse Research Project. Topics covered include basic biology and ecology re nesting and brood survival; survival factors; food habits and nutrition; home ranges and dispersal; population and habitat management; the future of grouse in the region. The ecology and management of ruffed grouse is well understood for their core range where aspen is dominant and integral to their well-being. But, what of ruffed grouse that occur where aspen doesn''t provide for their annual needs? Ecology and Management of Appalachian Ruffed Grouse presents a comprehensive overview of all aspects of grouse ecology and management in the central and southern Appalachians and summarizes the findings of the Appalachian Cooperative Grouse Research Project. From 1996 through 2002, investigators captured, released and followed the fate of over 3000 grouse on 12 study sites from Rhode Island to North Carolina. The primary goal was to understand factors, including hunting, that affect grouse survival, but in the process a substantial amount of additional information was discovered about grouse ecology in the Appalachians. The book covers the following topics: basic biology and ecology related to nesting and brood survival; factors affecting survival; food habits and nutrition effects on ecology; home ranges and dispersal; roosting ecology; population and habitat management; and, grouse management on private lands and the future of grouse in the central and southern Appalachians. This book should appeal to serious students of grouse ecology and management, game bird enthusiasts, and those individuals who are interested in natural history of birds in general.