It is assumed that a grouse is dead if the activity switch has been activated. Researchers then locate the radio collar and determine the cause of death for each grouse. Each transmitted hen is closely monitored during the nesting season. Incubation dates, clutch sizes and hatching dates are all determined from telemetry locations and nest checks. Chick survival is monitored by checking broods at one, three and five weeks of age.
Habitat data is collected at all nest and brood sites.
This will be compared to overall habitat availability to determine preferred brood habitat. Determining the relationship between habitat and grouse survival is a key objective of this research project. Trapping Success Trapping success in Maryland varied over the three year period. Grouse were trapped during the fall of 1996, spring and fall of 1997, and spring and fall of 1998. A total of 94 grouse were fitted with radios during the three year period.