Bird ID (Sooty Grouse)

Post by **Sean** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:51 am

Can anyone ID this bird found near Thor Peak in the Eastern Sierras? It looks like a sooty grouse to me. Thanks.

Post by **HikeUp** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 4:01 pm

I concur...sooty grouse. @Mike P

Mike P · Post by **Mike P** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 5:17 pm

Yessiree, gents, sooty grouse! @Sean @HikeUp

Mike P · Post by **Mike P** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 5:35 pm

From my last Whitney trip in 2015 (hens)... From just before the multiple log crossing on, if I remember correctly, Lone Pine Creek. just after the wilderness sign...

How many sooty grouse here?

Talk about camouflage...

In 2016 we were heading down into Big Whitney Meadows and there was a hooting male grouse. He made loud "thumping" or "womping" sounds!

Post by **HikeUp** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 8:56 pm

Thanks Mike. I see 2 in the 3rd picture.

Mike P · Post by **Mike P** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 9:20 pm

@HikeUp

Yup. That's what I counted, as well. Although I think we saw 3-4 hens total.

Post by **HikeUp** » Mon Jul 02, 2018 9:55 pm

Their camo makes them look similar to pine cones.