The Division of Wildlife Resources is offering a chance for individuals to observe the annual greater sage-grouse’s spectacular courtship that is displayed by the male birds. This event will take place on Saturday, April 7 at Emma Park, which is located about 13 miles north of Price.

“If you have never seen sage-grouse or seen sage-grouse strutting during the spring, it’s really a remarkable experience,” said Conservation Outreach Manager, Morgan Jacobsen. “The opportunity to see them while they are strutting and while they are doing this mating season ritual is really a unique experience, we’re really excited about it.” Every spring, these birds gather at sites adjacent to nesting grounds called leks, where the male birds strut and make unique vocalizations.

Limited spots are available and pre-registration for the event is required. “Sage-grouse are prone to disturbance for various reasons. It’s a free event, we are going to limit this event to the first 30 people who register, so registration is required,” stated Jacobsen. Guests need to be aware that there could be some limiting factors in seeing the grouse due to predators can scare them away, weather conditions can also cause them to seek cover out of sight.

DWR biologists will be at the event to help guest find the birds and answer questions on sage-grouse biology and management. Photographers will likely be challenged by their distance from the leks, as well as obstructions posed by brush and rolling terrain. There will be binoculars and spotting scopes available for attendees who don’t have their own. Viewing the birds is best before and right after sunrise.

There are a few ways for individuals to keep informed about DWR’s upcoming events. “You can find them at www.wildlife.utah.gov and you go to the calendar section there. Easier is to go on to our Facebook page, Division of Wildlife Resources, click on events and there you could see events happening all over the state,” said Jacobsen.

To register for the viewing event visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/greater-sage-grouse-viewing-tickets-43764701400 or for any questions contact the DWR office at (435) 613-3707 or email morganjacobsen@utah.gov

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIVISION OF WILDLIFE RESOURCES