Thread: Sagehen...Unique Western USA Grouse

Clouds of sagehen (sage grouse) fed the pioneers as they emigrated out west. They are now threatened, but there are still huntable numbers in a few places. I'm fortunate to live only 130 miles from one of the better spots. We have a short two week season with a 2 bird/day limit with 4 in possession after the second day.

Many hunters don't like them as table fare, but my household covets them. They're a big bird and are strong fliers. I shot my first one 62 years ago and still get goosebumps on opening day.

These birds represent 16 miles of walking over volcanic rocks and around the sage scrub. Little Rosie and my 14 y/o grandson Owen loved every mile of it. Owen's dad got his first ever sagehen this trip, too.