Grouse: A winter snack for Lynx

You may of heard of the boom-bust cycle for Snowshoe hare and Canada Lynx, but did you know that other species are affected by this cycle too? When Lynx populations have risen and lowered the Snowshoe hare populations, Grouse can be a popular alternative for these cats.

Grouse are one of the few bird species that can be seen tromping through the snow in the winter months. They can get through the winter easier than most birds because they are able to digest plants that many other birds can't. For example, Spruce grouse feed mostly on needles from pines and other conifers. Other species, like the Ruffed grouse, will burrow themselves in the snow to insulate themselves from the elements. Because of these cold weather adaptations though, they are a readily available second food option for Lynx.