Forest Management and Ruffed Grouse Populations in a Minnesota Coniferous Forest

Fluctuations of ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus (L)) populations resulted from forest management and changes in stand composition on two study areas, each about 259 hectares in size. An important factor influencing ruffed grouse populations is the presence or absence of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.; P. grandidentata Michx.) in forest stands. Dense young aspen sapling and pole stands provide cover where grouse are relatively secure from predation, while the presence of mature aspen provides high-value winter food. Management that favors conifers reduces ruffed grouse habitat