Prairie Chicken
Tympanuchus cupido
Those who live near prairies and brushy grasslands have a chance to become acquainted with this brown hen-like bird which formerly ranged over much of the middle west. Cultivation and hunters have reduced the numbers until they no longer are common. The large size, the short, dark, rounded tail, the heavily barred underparts, the rounded wings, all are descriptive of this bird. In flight he reminds you of king-size Meadow Larks, flapping then sailing, as he journeys to and from favorite feeding grounds.
In early spring these birds gather in a selected location known as a “booming ground”; there the males defend a certain area against other males, yet welcome the hens by strutting, inflating their yellow throat sacks and erecting the feathers over their heads until they resemble ears. These antics are accompanied by clucks and a series of 3-noted hoots which make up their love songs. The males often engage in fighting to protect their area.
Their food includes insects such as crickets, grasshoppers and beetles with plenty of roughage such as leaves, seeds and berries. Waste corn, wheat, rye or sorghums are relished in season. Heavy snows drive the birds to sumacs and elm buds.
We hear your call in early morn
Like measured toots on mellow horn,
We watch your rhythmic flap ... then sail
As you descend from hill to vale.