ruffed grouse

ruffed grouse

noun

Definition of RUFFED GROUSE

: a grouse (Bonasa umbellus) of United States and Canadian forests of which the male erects a ruff of black feathers and fans out a broad black-banded tail during breeding displays

First Known Use of RUFFED GROUSE

circa 1782

Rhymes with RUFFED GROUSE

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ruffed grouse

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

North American species (Bonasa umbellus) of grouse, sometimes incorrectly called a partridge. Ruffed grouse live mainly on berries, fruits, seeds, and buds but also eat much animal food. They are 16–20 in. (40–50 cm) long and have feathered lower legs and a black band on the fan-shaped tail. The male's ruff consists of erectile black feathers on the sides of the neck. Males beat their wings rapidly against the air (called drumming) to proclaim their territory.