I dont know what the reason, but I had a similar encounter
with a Ruffed Grouse that acted quite tame and even
aggressive. I visited it regularly one spring at the same spot
and it behavior was similar each time.

Chris Chappell
chris.chappell at wadnr.gov
Olympia

>>> "lorraine i. potter" <105570.1263 at compuserve.com>
03/22/98 05:40pm >>>
Yesterday I took a hike with a small group on the South Tiger
Loop trail of
Tiger Mountain.
About half way through the loop we encountered a ruffed
grouse. I have
seen other species of grouse, but I had never seen a ruffed
before. It
acted in a way that was totally unexpected by me. It was on
the trail and
not only did not move off as we approached but proceeded to
walk up to
different members of the group and pecked at our clothes or
around us. It
appeared to be totally unafraid. I was not certain if it was
attempting to
peck something off us or trying to drive us away. I looked
back after we
had walked on and it was still moving around on the trail.
Can anyone give
me a clue as to what was going on? Is this "usual" behavior
for this
species? Will they attempt to defend a nest from intruders if
they get too
close?
Irene Potter, Tacoma, WA
105570.1263 at Compuserve.com