Once upon a time, the Sharp-tailed Grouse was as common around Leduc as any upland game bird could be. A denizen of short and tall grass prairie, habitat fragmentation and the sowing of non-native grasses has made the bird an infrequent sighting. Only one has been spotted during recent bird surveys, and that was in the 2014 Christmas Bird Count. What can be done to bring back this important species?
Very important to Sharp-tailed breeding is the presence of a Lek (an area of courtship display). This Lek must exist on a hilltop, supported by short grasses, and free of brush. Water sources must be nearby, and native grasses, bare soil patches, and connectivity to similar habitat across the community are required. Another important ingredient: fire.
Prescribed burning keeps brush and trees, non-native grasses and forbs at bay, regenerating a natural regime (sometimes with a little help from seeding). Sharp-tailed Grouse rely on food sources such as insects, grasses, buds, fruits, and herbs. Fire also consumes the thick thatch that impedes the progress of young chicks. Having said this, vegetative thickets and groves of trees are required in small pockets, to allow shelter from extreme weather and a refuge from predators.
Where adjacent landowners agree to cooperate on projects such as Sharp-tailed Grouse management, it's all about connectivity through marginal habitat linking quality lands. It is now understood that native areas of at least 1000 acres (400 ha) are required for many upland species. The good news? These habitats are also premium for Mule Deer, Badgers, and other species.
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