Hazel grouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hazel grouse |
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Tetrastes
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bonasia
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The hazel grouse (Tetrastes bonasia), sometimes called the hazel hen, is a small type of grouse. These birds are known for being quite shy. They live in forests across a large part of the world.
You can find hazel grouse in many places. Their home stretches from eastern and central Europe all the way to Asia. They live as far east as Hokkaido, an island in Japan. These birds prefer to live in woodland areas that are thick, moist, and have a mix of pine and other trees.
Contents
What does a Hazel Grouse look like?
Hazel grouse are small, chunky birds. They usually grow to be about 35 to 39 centimeters (14 to 15 inches) long. They have a short, rounded tail. Their feathers are a mix of grey, brown, and black. This helps them blend in with the trees and leaves.
Both male and female hazel grouse have a crest of feathers on their head. This crest can be raised or lowered. Males have a black patch on their throat. This patch is outlined in white. Females have a smaller, less noticeable throat patch.
Where do Hazel Grouse live?
Hazel grouse live in a wide area called the Palearctic. This huge region includes Europe and most of Asia. They prefer forests that are dense and damp. These forests often have a mix of different trees. They like areas with thick undergrowth. This helps them hide from predators.
They are often found near streams or wet areas. This is because they need water and certain plants that grow in damp places. Their habitat provides plenty of food and cover.
What do Hazel Grouse eat?
Hazel grouse are mostly herbivores. This means they eat plants. Their diet changes with the seasons. In winter, they mostly eat buds and twigs from trees. They especially like birch and alder trees.
In warmer months, they eat more leaves, berries, and seeds. They also eat some insects, especially when they are young. Chicks need a lot of protein to grow. So, they eat more insects when they are small.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Hazel grouse usually lay their eggs in a nest on the ground. The nest is often hidden under a bush or log. The female lays between 5 and 10 eggs. The eggs are a pale yellow or buff color with brown spots.
The female incubates the eggs. This means she sits on them to keep them warm. It takes about 21 to 25 days for the eggs to hatch. The chicks are able to walk and find food very soon after hatching. They stay with their mother for several weeks. She teaches them how to find food and stay safe.
Conservation Status
The hazel grouse is currently listed as a "Least Concern" species. This means that their population is stable. They are not considered to be in danger of extinction. However, like many wild animals, they can be affected by changes to their forest homes. Protecting their habitat is important for their future.
Images for kids
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Hazel grouse
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Eggs, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
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Hazel Grouse chick
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Tetrastes bonasia rupestris - MHNT
See also
In Spanish: Grévol común para niños
