Video: Have You Ever Seen a Sage Grouse Strut?

Bird hunters and gun-dog people like us target such better-known species as pheasants, ruffed grouse, woodcock and various quail, including the iconic "Gentleman Bob," the emblematic wingshooting bird of southern plantations. Wild bobwhite are making a comeback in some areas though, and the desert Southwest has those other cool quail, too.

For sure, a bird like the sage grouse is likely less common on the public's radar, but yes, well-known to some of us who've watched this game bird challenged dramatically in our lifetimes.

It's not too late. And one organization is doing something about it.

The Sage Grouse Initiative describes itself as a partnership-based, science-driven effort that uses voluntary incentives to proactively conserve America's western rangelands, wildlife and rural way of life. (Follow this group on Facebook here.)

Yes, you can still hunt them in some states; in others, you can't. Sage grouse preservation, as with other game and non-game species we love, is a habitat issue. Go here to learn more.

Bonus Poster: A printable PDF from the Sage Grouse Initiative.

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