Naturalists’ Corner: Nature in Winter by Dave Gallup

Newsletter: Winter 2026

January Meeting

Ruffed Grouse Ecology & Life History

Presented by Dr. John McDonald, Westfield State University

The ruffed grouse is native to New England. Valued by hunters and naturalists, it is found in young forests across its range, but can persist even in areas with little young forests. However, it is threatened across its range by the decline of key habitats and relatively novel diseases. This evenings talk will discuss the ecology of the ruffed grouse, its population trends, and ongoing work to secure its future.

John McDonald is professor and chair of the Environmental Science Department at Westfield State University. He has also served as President and Fellow of The Wildlife Society. John did his Master’s research on ruffed grouse in Pennsylvania. At the time, he expected to be a grouse biologist for the rest of his career. Fate had other plans for him and he has worked with black bears, deer, moose, beavers, and a few other critters over the years, but he still loves to hear a grouse drumming in the spring or to flush one during a hike or a hunt with his dogs.

Wednesday, January 21, starting at 7 p.m.

Tolman Auditorium, Springfield Science Museum

Visit some of our partners’ websites: Springfield Stars Club Allen Bird Club Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary