Spruce Grouse
Dear Spruce Grouse
Ryan J. Bradshaw
Dear Spruce Grouse,
It is cruel that they call you “Fool”
for your lack of fear when humans are near.
Though we have much to learn before it is earned,
I value the trust that you place in us.
If people take a stance, there is still a chance
to turn things around; to not let you down.
From: One of the flawed,
Ryan J. Bradshaw
The Spruce Grouse is known by some as “Fool Hen” because they are so tame around people, including those who might choose to hunt them. That being said, even if they are just a few feet away, they can be difficult to notice, keeping still and hidden in their northern forest habitat.
According to Audubon’s Survival by Degrees study, the Spruce Grouse is estimated to lose 50% of its current summer range in the not-too-distant future as average global temperatures rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Climate experts believe we will reach 1.5°C as soon as the early 2030s. If we allow global heating to progress at this rate, the Spruce Grouse could lose 63% of its current summer range as soon as 2050 (2°C), and 86% as soon as 2080 (3°C). Projections suggest this species could gain 17%-21% in new areas, but displaced birds may face new challenges and have varying degrees of success in nesting and rearing young.
Want to help? Visit the United Nations website for a list of actions that you can take!
Photograph courtesy of Nick Saunders
This project is supported by SK Arts
