Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse

Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse
Photo Credit: Bryant Olsen, Flickr

Overview

  • Species Common Name Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse
  • Species Scientific Name Tympanuchus phasianellus columbianus
  • Federal Listing Status Species of Concern
  • State Listing Status Sensitive

Ecoregions

Special needs

Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse prefer bunchgrass prairies interspersed with stream bottoms containing deciduous shrubs and trees.

Limiting factors

Historically, significant habitat loss from conversion of bunchgrass prairie to cropland (pre-1915) led to extirpation of this species from Oregon. The small, declining, reintroduced population north of Enterprise is limited by drought, fire, fence strikes, predation, and availability of winter habitat.

Conservation actions

Monitor leks and wintering areas. Work with landowners to enhance habitat and minimize impacts of grazing. Manage and protect large expanses of suitable habitat and establish connectivity between occupied and candidate sites.

Key reference or plan

ODFW Upland Gamebird Projects: Re-introducing Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse