Report Nr. 3168 Ruffed Grouse Drumming Surveys in Michigan

Spring drumming surveys were established to monitor ruffed grouse populations. Drumming by male grouse serves three purposes: (1) establishing and securing a breeding territory, (2) attracting hens, and (3) deriving an optimal distribution of male birds per unit area. The monitoring of male ruffed grouse drumming activity in Michigan began in the early 1950s and continued into the early 1960s. After a period of almost 30 years, the surveys was reinstated in the spring of 1990. Statewide. drums per stop have decreased significantly since 1990. Within regions, this trend is not as clear. In Region I, a significant decrease occurred in 1991 with virtually no change in 1992. Region II saw a modest decrease in 1992, while Region III witnessed a significant decrease in 1992. Continued collection of data over time is needed to determine if a real and consistent trend is emerging across regions in addition to the entire state.