There’s a running quip among Maine hunters regarding the difference between grouse and partridge. When you approach a gallinaceous game bird , if it flies away, it’s a grouse. If it walks away, it’s a partridge. 

In truth, our most abundant upland bird is a grouse, a ruffed grouse to be more precise. That’s an important distinction, because in higher elevations and northern areas of Maine, you might also come across a spruce grouse, which is not legal game. The only true partridges in the U.S. have been imported or raised in captivity for hunting preserves.

Still, that tongue-in-cheek distinction has a lot to do with how folks go about hunting the species. In southern and cental Maine, where people are more abundant, the birds are less abundant and considered “wilder” by bird hunters. By that, they mean the birds are more inclined to flush, often long before offering a shot opportunity. Most hunters in these areas employ one of two methods. One is to simply stroll along in hopes of flushing a bird within range. The other is to enlist the aid of dogs.

Dog hunters are a different breed, no pun intended. Regardless of the game, be it birds, bear or hare, the hunt is more about the dogs than the quarry. Watching a well-trained pointer or setter work a scent is a thing of beauty. If they can hold a bird in position until hunters arrive, it’s a win, whether the shot is a hit or a miss. 

In the north woods, grouse (or partridge) could be considered a pedestrian bird. One reason is because you’ll often find them walking along the side of the road, or in the middle of it. Another is because their propensity to do so might make them seem a bit dull and uninspiring. Either way, you can’t help but to stop for them.

Some folks are concerned that this method of hunting “easy targets” could be detrimental to grouse populations. One only need look at satellite imagery of the landscape to see the fallacy in that argument. Roads are few and far between, and for every bird you encounter along them, there are just as many where the roads and most hunters don’t go.

Someone once asked me what grouse tastes like. I said, “like turkey, with a hint of cranberry sauce.” Regardless of how they’re harvested, whether randomly, over a stoic setter or on the roadside, we should give thanks for the opportunity.

Bob Humphrey is a freelance writer and Registered Maine Guide who lives in Pownal. He can be reached at: bob@bobhumphrey.com