Abstract
Abstract The endemic Chinese Grouse (Tetrastes sewerzowi) inhabits subalpine coniferous forests. Little is known about its diet in the breeding season, especially while birds feed on the ground. Analysis of crop contents indicated that willow (Salix spp.) was the primary food of males (>98% wet weight, n = 4), whereas Dragon spruce (Picea asperata) seeds and willow were the primary foods of females (both >40% wet weight, n = 2). Dragon spruce seeds, invertebrates (mainly ants), and forbs were frequently consumed by females, but seldom by males, possibly to meet the nutrient constraints of egg formation. We suggest the different diets of males and females of this monogamous species may be the result of females allocating more time to searching for scarce, nutritious food, whereas males spend more time in vigilance behavior.
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