GreATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN

Tympanuchus cupido

 
Weight: 1.75-2.25 lbs
Geographic Distribution:Central United States, from North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin down through Texas, and small parts of Louisiana
Diet:Grain, seeds, leaves, grasses, flowers, fruits, and insects
Status in the Wild:Near Threatened
Location:North American Prairie Aviary

Greater prairie chickens have brown and white feathers, and males also have orange throat sacs that inflate, allowing them to emit a booming call that can be heard over a mile away. Males find mates and defend their breeding grounds through extensive courtship displays. During these, they raise their tail and neck feathers, stomp their feet, dance in circles, and emit their famous booming calls.