CRAIG & LIZ LARCOM
WE ARE PROUD TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK'S BACKCOUNTRY.
YELLOWSTONE PARK, HORSEBACK
RIDES, PACK TRIPS, FLY-FISHING TRIPS, DROP CAMPS, AND FAMILY VACATIONS.
COME FOR A DAY OR STAY
FOR A WEEK! Sharp-Tailed Sage Grouse KIPP & HEIDI SAILE
406.333.4505 EMAIL: ANTLERS@MONTANA.NET WWW.ROCKINHK.COM
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strictly a creature of alpine-arctic habitats, mostly con- fined to high tundra along the northern Continental Divide. Each of the mountain birds have similar life histories, feeding on a mix of insects and plant foods and living quiet lives on the ground. Part of what draws us to grouse is their adorable habit of freezing in place when they see us. In plain view the birds seem to be thinking, "If I don't move, I will not be seen." It is a ploy that often works...except when done completely out of context, such as along a forest road where they often stick out like a sore thumb. Presumably, this is why some species were dubbed, "Fool Hens" by early settlers. Anyone who has blindly stumbled upon a grouse in the woods knows they can explode into a furious burst of panicked flight. These moments can be terrifying, especially in grizzly country. The beauty of game birds is not the only reason humans seek them out. My first hunting experience involved chasing Ruffed Grouse through the forest. I was younger then and unsure of many things except for the fact that I wanted to engage with the landscape as an active participant. I remember lifting that first- ever killed bird from the forest floor and thinking how lovely it still was. Given my clumsiness as a hunter, I felt unworthy of the gift but accepted it with much gratitude. Walking out, I rounded a bend and another grouse exploded into flight, leaving me breathless and shaken but moved by the instant of mortal contrast. Montana's game birds can be found in nearly all habitats, from prairie to mountaintop. Spend some time looking and you are certain to notice them on your travels.
DISTINCTLY MONTANA • FALL 2012
