Did you, as a kid, see Hitchcock’s “The Birds”? We our having a “Birds” experience ourselves. The Ruffed Grouse at the cottage that began following us (and our dog, Toby) around last summer has turned nasty! A day or so ago, he started by fluttering at Toby’s head from point blank range. Next, he whacked Sandy from behind. He then whacked me from behind twice; the second time was from a long distance – he really dive bombed me. I can tell you it is a surprise when a grouse swoops in unbeknownst and hits the back of your head! Then, last evening, Sandy sat down in the sun room and the bird tried to get at her head, but luckily the storm window intervened. This guy is demented.

We have chased him, pushed him with long sticks, and he just walks away, but then returns immediately.

It may be necessary to relocate him. If he gets close enough, I think I can throw a cardboard box over him and take him for a looooooong drive. Do you want us to bring him to your home in Peterborough?

Rob and Sandy Moos, Parry Sound

Ruffed Grouse – Parry Sound – via Rob Moos

Categories: Sightings

Drew Monkman

I am a retired teacher, naturalist and writer with a love for all aspects of the natural world, especially as they relate to seasonal change.