A large turkey-like bird that puffs out his chest and fans his tail into a starburst when performing a spectacular display!
The sage hen (Centrocercus urophasianus), also known as the greater sage-grouse, is a gray-brown bird with a black belly.
Males have a black head and throat, as well as a white ruff that surrounds a pair of inflatables.
Thus, yellow air balls, that make a sound when thrust forward, produce distinctive liquid popping noises during displays.
The female of the species has a dark patch that is highlighted by white markings behind her eye.
This species’ historical range included 16 U.S. states as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.
However, the Canadian population has decreased by 98 percent since 1988.
The Canadian Governor in Council issued an emergency protection order in 2013 in the hope of saving the species.
Also in 2013, the Greater sage rage became extinct in five U.S. states.
Throughout the year, it consumes leaves, flowers, and buds from a wide range of plants.
Moreover, during the summer, it will eat insects on occasion.
