Native to forests rich in aspens and poplars across Canada and the US, ruffed grouse are nonmigratory birds who spend their entire lives in the same area. This one"s posing for us in the forest of Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada. Depending on the habitat they"re in, their feathers can range in color from gray to red as a means of camouflage to protect themselves from predators. They get their name from the ruff of dark feathers on their neck. Despite being primarily ground-dwelling birds, ruffed grouse can be quite the acrobatic fliers when needed. They excel at flying in short spurts and are skilled at making sharp twists and turns when navigating through thick deciduous forests. How"s that for beauty and brawn?
It s a ruff life
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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A crane for good luck in today’s big game
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Christmas Eve
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Monarch butterflies, Pismo Beach, California
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Raise your hand for Teacher Appreciation Day
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Happy Easter!
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Hiking the High Trestle Trail
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Earthrise on Moon Day
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A palace for the public
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Happy 300th, NOLA!
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A viewer with a view
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Winter solstice
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Summer solstice
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Balloons and camels are two ways to catch a ride here
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When an ideal microclimate gives you lemons…
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Eurasian scops owl
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World Lizard Day
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In honor of those we ve lost
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Gray seal pup, Norfolk, England
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A wetland in Västmanland, Sweden
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A visit to Limerick on Limerick Day
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Negratín Reservoir, Granada, Spain
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Okavango Delta, Botswana
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And to think that I saw it in Cappadocia
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The power of the forest
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World Elephant Day
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1, 1, 2, 3: It s Fibonacci Day!
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Arbor Day
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Quilts as high art
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Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
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Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana