grouse

Due to its impressive appearance and special courtship behavior, the capercaillie is not only a symbol of untouched forest landscapes, but also an important indicator of healthy, old forest ecosystems. Its preservation is therefore of ecological importance.

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Aves (birds)
    • Order: Galliformes (gallinaceous birds)
    • Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants)
    • Genus: Tetrao (Grouse)
    • Species: T. urogallus (Capercaillie)
  • Physical characteristics

    • Size (male): 74-90 cm long
    • Size (female): 54-60 cm long
    • Weight (male): 3.0-6.5 kg
    • Weight (female): 1.5-2.5 kg
    • Wingspan: 70-125 cm
    • Plumage: Males with black-blue shimmering plumage with white accents; females in camouflage brown
  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: From the forests of Europe to Asia
    • Habitat: Prefers dense old coniferous forests with clearings
    • Adaptation: Adapted to cold and temperate climates
  • Nutrition

    • Diet Type: Herbivore
    • Food: buds, leaves, needles, fruits and seeds
  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: March to May
    • Nest building: ground nests
    • Number of eggs: 5-12 per brood
    • Breeding behavior: Female breeds alone, protects the breeding site from predators
  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 13 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Endangered by habitat loss and hunting
    • Protection measures: nature reserves and hunting restrictions
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