This large fine Grouse inhabits the coniferous forests of the Pacific slope. Migratory instinct is absent and they retire to the high spruce and firs when winter snows cover the mountains. Males woo with all the ardor imaginable, strutting with pompous importance before their lady loves. Head thrown back until it touches the extended tail they parade, while the neck sacs show and disappear when the emitted air is released in low ventriloquistic "booms." Their torch of life is carried undimmed by the gloom and immensity of environment. In common with the rest of the genus they are unsuspicious wherever unmolested but learn quickly to evade persistent enemies.
Rocky Mountains from northern Utah and Colorado to central New Mexico and Arizona. West to East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada.