Interspersion and a variety of timber classes enhance the quality of ruffed grouse habitat. Ruffed grouse prosper in even-aged woodlands that have frequent thinning and short rotations. A male ruffed grouse drumming on a log. Most adult male grouse are generally stationary, and have a home range of 10 to 50 acres. Females with broods, however, will range over 40 to 100 acres.
Home range is determined by the quality of food, water, and cover.
Habitat quality, not hunting, limits grouse densities. Standing water is not necessary. FOOD Grouse are primarily plant eaters. Although mostly browsers of woody plants, twigs, and buds, they also like to feed on fleshy fruits. Insects are essential food for broods from late May through July.