Ruffed grouse-habitat preference in the central and southern Appalachians

▶ Ruffed grouse in many parts of their range are declining. ▶ Declining grouse populations are the result of habitat changes. ▶ There is a lack of appropriate knowledge of grouse-habitat relationships. ▶ Generally, grouse were associated with young forest (<20 years old) and roads. ▶ Management should focus on creating and enhancing young forest and road areas.