WatchList Species Account for Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus)

Qualifies for the list as a Declining Yellow List Species

Photo: USFWS

Named for its preference for habitats dominated by big sagebrush, the Greater Sage-Grouse was once found in 16 states and 3 Canadian provinces in the West; it has now been extirpated from five states and one province and in reduced in range in the rest. This very large grouse with its dramatic breeding displays on its leks is resident in some localities but migrates seasonally between wintering and nesting areas in others. The bird is adapted to a mosaic of habitats with sagebrush of various species and physiognomy. The bird’s digestive system is uniquely adapted for eating sagebrush, which is essential for the bird’s survival and dominates its diet from autumn through early spring while forming an important item as well during summer. Specific species or subspecies of sagebrush are preferred for their higher nutritive value or lower toxins. Insects are important for juveniles and also form part of the adult’s summertime diet.

The bird’s total population is estimated at 142,000 in 1998 (this would include the Gunnison Sage-Grouse, since described as a separate species). In all the states and provinces where it is still found, its range has been reduced and its numbers declined. Though still hunted, most researchers make the assumption that the current pressure from hunting does not materially affect the population size, but there have been no experimental studies on hunting and the assumptions that it has no effect are untested. Hunting is not allowed several states and provinces.

There has been management to maintain and improved habitat. This includes management of grazing, controlled burns, restoration of native habitat, and setting up preserves. Translocation of birds may be needed to expand its distribution and augment its numbers, especially where no dispersal corridors exist between occupied and suitable but unoccupied habitats.