Spring is the time to observe Wyoming’s native sage-grouse on their leks, or courtship areas. During this annual ritual, which occurs from late March through early May, males are competing for mates.
The sage-grouse, also known as the sage chicken, is so called because its winter diet is almost exclusively sagebrush. Sage-grouse leks can attract from 10 to more than 200 males. The dominant males are usually in the center of the lek. They are the ones who do most of the breeding. Spotting the males is quite easy because the front of the bird is white.
Observing these birds perform their courtship ritual is both fascinating and enjoyable for wildlife enthusiasts. However, breeding activity on leks is easily disrupted so the department has developed the following guidelines for observers:
Arrive at the lek at least one hour before sunrise.
Don’t drive on or near the lek and park away from the edge of the lek.
Turn off the engine and lights and stay in your vehicle.
Use binoculars and spotting scopes to observe birds.
Don’t make loud noises or sudden movements.
Do not leave the lek site until the birds do.
Keep your pets in the vehicle or better yet leave them at home.
Do not trespass on private land.
Postpone your visit if roads are muddy.
Late April is the best time to visit because most breeding is complete by then but the males are still actively strutting.
The sage-grouse, also known as the sage chicken, is so called because its winter diet is almost exclusively sagebrush. Sage-grouse leks can attract from 10 to more than 200 males. The dominant males are usually in the center of the lek. They are the ones who do most of the breeding. Spotting the males is quite easy because the front of the bird is white.
Observing these birds perform their courtship ritual is both fascinating and enjoyable for wildlife enthusiasts. However, breeding activity on leks is easily disrupted so the department has developed the following guidelines for observers:
Arrive at the lek at least one hour before sunrise.
Don’t drive on or near the lek and park away from the edge of the lek.
Turn off the engine and lights and stay in your vehicle.
Use binoculars and spotting scopes to observe birds.
Don’t make loud noises or sudden movements.
Do not leave the lek site until the birds do.
Keep your pets in the vehicle or better yet leave them at home.
Do not trespass on private land.
Postpone your visit if roads are muddy.
Late April is the best time to visit because most breeding is complete by then but the males are still actively strutting.
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