NPSpecies

Seen most frequently in the Wonderland area (Witt 1997; Long (1987).

Native to North America (Long 1981) and Maine (Palmer 1949). Acadia National Park (1976): A note on 5 June 1972 and 6 May 1971 states that "Re-introduction of spruce grouse is still pending receiving a supply of birds for the State of Maine."

Rare resident (Witt 1997).

Park Species Detail: Checklist information (nativity) updated 4/11/03 by professional judgement of Bruce Connery, ACAD wildlife biologist. Whitcomb et al. (1994): Species believed extirpated from MDI in the late 1800s. Spruce Grouse are present within the park on MDI during 1992-1993. During 1992; 52 individuals were observed on MDI; during 1993, 39 individuals were observed on MDI. Total population on MDI is small; 72 estimated in 1992 and 56 estimated in 1993. Long (1987): Present along the Wonderland trail; frequently seen in scattered areas on MDI. Acadia National Park (1976): A note on 5 June 1972 and 6 May 1971 states that "Re-introduction of spruce grouse is still pending receiving a supply of birds for the State of Maine." Barden (1970) Once resided on MDI within ANP. Relatively common on MDI until 1910 (around Bass Harbor Marsh and Great Heath), then numbers gradually declined until the early 1930's, when it was thought to be extirpated. Scattered observations in the 1960's (dead on the road near McFarland Hill, W. Townsend). Bond (1969) "There have been several records of the Spruce Grouse on Mt. Desert, all by bird-watchers, but it is significant that neither I nor other game shooters whom I have known have ever bagged this extraordinarily fearless and sluggish species on the island during the past 50 years." Palmer (1949) "The last island record is perhaps that of the one seen on Mt. Desert Island on August 29, 1899 (Hallock, 1899). Spruce Grouse was also called the Haith Hen or Heath Hen. Bond (1949): No longer nests on MDI. Bond (19??) accidental, no recent records. Tyson and Bond (1941): Accidental on MDI, one taken on August 29, 1899. Sullivan (1937) very rare visitor. One taken 29 August 1899 on MDI., Park Species Data Source: Witt (1997); Whitcomb et al. (1994); Long (1987); Barden (1970)