Greater sage-grouse

Centrocercus urophasianus

The greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), also known as the sagehen, is the largest grouse in North America.

Family: Phasianidae Order: Galliformes Conservation: Near Threatened

About the Greater sage-grouse

The greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), also known as the sagehen, is the largest grouse in North America. Its range is sagebrush country in the western United States and southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada. It was known as simply the sage grouse until the Gunnison sage-grouse was recognized as a separate species in 2000. The Mono Basin population of sage grouse may also be distinct. The greater sage-grouse is a permanent resident in its breeding grounds but may move short distances to lower elevations during winter. It makes use of a complex lek system in mating and nests on the ground under sagebrush or grass patches. It forages on the ground, mainly eating sagebrush but also other plants and insects. Greater sage-grouse do not have a muscular crop and are not able to

Fun Facts About Greater sage-grouse

The species is in decline across its range due to habitat loss, and has been recognized as threatened or near threatened by several national and international organizations.
The greater sage-grouse is a permanent resident in its breeding grounds but may move short distances to lower elevations during winter.
The greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), also known as the sagehen, is the largest grouse in North America.
It was known as simply the sage grouse until the Gunnison sage-grouse was recognized as a separate species in 2000.
It makes use of a complex lek system in mating and nests on the ground under sagebrush or grass patches.

Conservation Status

The Greater sage-grouse is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. This species faces threats that could impact its population if conservation measures are not maintained.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

Order	Galliformes
Family	Phasianidae
Genus	Centrocercus
Species	Centrocercus urophasianus

Range & Habitat