Daniel and Kelly - This is a White-tailed Ptarmigan. Spruce Grouse do
not have as much of a mottled appearance as ptarmigans, and the white
tail feathers peeking out from the side are a dead giveaway. This is a
White-tailed rather than a Rock or Willow Ptarmigan due to the smallish
bill.

Daniel did not mention how big the chicks were but Spruce Grouse chicks
would be almost as big as the mother by the 2nd week of August, whereas
ptarmigan nest later and the chicks would be only about half the size of
the hen.

- Jack Bowling
Prince George, BC
jbowling at direct.ca