Blue Grouse divided by two equals Dusky and Sooty Grouse

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Published: 2006

Pages: 3

Author(s): Michael A. Schroeder

Introduction

The state of Washington has a new species of grouse, at least according to the American Ornithologists Union (Auk, 2006, Pages 926-936). Dendragapus obscurus (formerly known as the Blue Grouse) has now been split into 2 species based on genetic, morphological, and behavioral evidence; the Dusky Grouse (Dendragapus obscurus) and the Sooty Grouse (Dendragapus fuliginosus). This split is actually a reversion to the previous situation during the early 1900s when the Dusky and Sooty Grouse were considered distinct.

Suggested citation

Schroeder, M. A. 2006. Blue grouse divided by two equals dusky and sooty grouse. Washington Birder 14(3):1,4-5.