Today I went to the field-that-was-a-forest to pick some blueberries. I had gone there a couple of weeks ago and picked about a pint and a half, but that’s not enough for making pie. (The recipes call for 5-6 cups). Penny came along in case I needed any sticks thrown, or grouse flushed.
Ruffed Grouse?
There were at least three of them. Two flushed as soon as we walked by, and I didn’t even see them. The third flushed a few seconds later but didn’t go far. I think this one might be a juvenile, but I am not a bird expert. I’m not even sure it’s a ruffed grouse.
The berries were past their prime. Two weeks ago the bushes were loaded with them. This week I had to search diligently. I think I picked maybe a pint after an hour’s effort. Luckily, the blackberries are coming in now, and I picked a few cups of those too. Between the blueberries and the blackberries, I have enough to make a pie. There are recipes out there that use both, so I will follow one of those.
Jomegat's Weblog 
August 2, 2013 at 10:37 pm
That’s a very nice photo of the grouse. I think you are correct, a juvenile ruffed grouse.
August 3, 2013 at 8:10 am
I figured the best way to confirm its identity would be to post it here.
August 3, 2013 at 1:21 am
I would say juvenile ruffed grouse as well, and a very good shot of one at that!
August 3, 2013 at 8:11 am
It does not compare to the bird photos I’ve seen you post.
August 3, 2013 at 8:03 am
I don’t know one bird from the next but I know a good photo when I see one and this is one. Kind of looks a bit like a chicken, doesn’t it?
August 3, 2013 at 8:13 am
This was only the second time I’ve ever seen one. The first time was 6-8 years ago when I went out to get the newspaper. One was waltzing across my driveway.
They do look remarkably like chickens.
August 5, 2013 at 12:23 am
Love the photo, really well done. It is hard to get such a good shot…the pie sounds really good, it is hard to stop thinking about that now..
August 5, 2013 at 12:43 am
I guess I got lucky, because all I did was point, zoom, and click a couple of times. Didn’t get around to making the pie yet, but the berries are safely in the freezer now.