Double-brooding observed in a Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse (Tympanachus phasianellus columbianus) in Idaho

Abstract

ABSTRACT Double brooding is rare in Galliformes and has only been reported twice in grouse species (subfamily Tetraoninae). To our knowledge, a grouse species producing a second brood within a single breeding season that survived >12 days has not been documented in the published literature. We report the case of a Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse (Tympanachus phasianellus columbianus) in eastern Idaho (43° 34′ 28.3434” N, 111° 36′ 47.988” W) that successfully re-nested after initial brood loss and had two chicks survive to 42 days post-hatch during the 2015 breeding season. Early brood loss, in conjunction with favorable environmental conditions that contributed to early nest initiation and increased food availability, may have contributed to this female's ability to produce a successful second brood.