Sharp-tailed Grouse
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Sharp-tailed Grouse mating dance
Sharp-tailed Grouse Mating display at Namekagon Barrens Wildlife area.
BirdsNamekagon Barrens WildlifeAreaSharptailed GrouseSpringleksmating displaymating ritual
Mating Dance
The Sharp-tailed Grouse have a ritual every Spring that attracts the females to a LEK. The females choose who they want to mate with.
This dance can be seen in the morning and evening.
The Dance
The male Sharp-tailed Grouse fill the air sac and dance to attract females to the Lek.
This series of images were made in Wisconsin at the Namekagon Barrens Wildlife area.
Aggresive Behavior
Male Sharp-tailed Grouse will use their beaks to attack another male.
Territorial fight
Male Sharp-tails will fight for the attentions of the females. They use their wings, beaks and claws to attack each other.
The Attack
Sharp-tailed Grouse use their feet to attack another male.
Territorial Attack
Using his beak, the Sharp-tailed Grouse defends his territory.
Flutter Jumper
During their courtship dances, the male advertise the location of the display grounds by cackling and "flutter-jumping". He jumps into the air and flies a few feet forward.
Stand Off
The aggressive displays may include several postures and squealing sounds, whining, and gobbling sounds.
Courtship dance of the Sharp-tailed Grouse
The male Sharp-tailed Grouse use several courtship displays. The most complex is the "tail-rattling" or "dancing" display.
Defending his Territory
Sharp-tailed Grouse defend their territory with their feet, wings and beaks.
High Jumper
The male Sharp-tailed Grouse will attack another male to defend his territory.
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Dancing on the Lek
Sharp-tailed Grouse dance on the lek to attract the females in the early Spring.