Why Mister Grouse Is the Friendliest Bird in the Forest

Ruffed grouse are elusive and stealthy, but scientists are seeking a genetic explanation for why some of the birds become best buddies with people.

Mister Grouse helping with chores around the property. Bill Hartline

When Bill Hartline bought 50 acres of forested land outside Muncy, Pa., he was looking for a bit of solitude and a place to eventually build a new home in retirement. But during a camping trip there in early 2020, he discovered the wooded plot wasn’t as lonely as he thought. That evening, a ruffed grouse — a crow-size bird with a tiny mohawk and mottled feathers — appeared at his feet.

“I crouched down and said, ‘Hello.’ He cooed back and started following me around,” Mr. Hartline, 66, said. “Three years later, he’s still following me around.”

That’s putting it mildly. Mister Grouse, as he has named the bird, seems to ingratiate himself into everything Mr. Hartline does. Mister Grouse rides the tractor, hops up on ladders and enjoys the campfire from atop Mr. Hartline’s shoulders.

It’s a far cry from the behavior of most ruffed grouse, whose stealth and elusiveness are why hunters call them the “king of game birds.”

“He is extremely friendly, but in all honesty, he can be a pain, too,” Mr. Hartline said.

When Mr. Hartline or his guests try to drive away, the bird throws himself under the car. “He never wants you to leave, and he’s learned that if he’s under the car, you won’t leave,” Mr. Hartline said.

He can also get “too friendly,” as Mr. Hartline puts it, untying shoelaces or pulling hair.

Still, Mr. Hartline says that he considers Mister Grouse a friend, although he’s curious as to why the bird has chosen him. Researchers may soon have the answer…

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