Archived Publications
contain dated information
that do not reflect current
WDFW regulations or policy.
These documents are provided
for archival purposes only.
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.
