62. Black Grouse (Lyrurus tetrix)

Black Grouse is somewhat similar to Capercaillie in appearance, with a similar distribution (although it's more widespread in the UK). The females are particularly similar; the main difference is the size - Black Grouse is smaller - and also the markings with female Capercaillie being more coarsely barred with an orange-brown unbarred throat whereas Black Grouse's is barred. Males are more distinctive with their flamboyant lyre-shaped tails. They make excellently spooky noises - the song is an lovely eerie bubbling, and they make a weird, slightly unnerving, hissing call while they are lekking. One of my favourite bird sounds!

Black Grouse, ©Rainbirder, via Flickr Creative Commons.

Black Grouse drawing.

I know I always say this, but I'm so much happier working in colour, really enjoyed doing this one. Impossible to get that blue shade right with my pencil crayons, it's fun to try though!