Spruce Grouse Chick

As climate change continues to escalate, many bird species are negativity affected. Consequently, it is important to research changes in ranges and abundances of bird species globally. This past summer, I worked as a field tech in Northern Ontario for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas documenting these changes. This research has important implications for conservation as well as understanding the ecological requirements for successful bird breeding. During a bush-whack, I was lucky enough to stumble across this spruce grouse chick hiding away in a spruce tree. Although this species is currently not listed as endangered, it preforms better in areas regenerating from forest fires. Due to the large amounts of forest fire suppression occurring, it is possible that we will see a decline in this species in the coming years.
A spruce grouse chick hiding away in a spruce tree