Capercaillie

/kˈæpəkˌe‍ɪli/

/kˈæpɚkˌeɪli/

Capercaillie

a large Eurasian bird similar to turkey, called a grouse, the male of which spreads its feathers as a way to attract mates

synonyms : capercailzie

horse of the wood

Tetrao urogallus

wood grouse

What is a "capercaillie"?

A capercaillie is a magnificent bird native to the forests of Eurasia. It is characterized by its large size, with males reaching up to one meter in length. The plumage of the male capercaillie is richly colored, featuring a mix of black, brown, and iridescent green feathers. During the mating season, males engage in elaborate courtship displays, which include inflating their neck feathers, spreading their tail feathers, and emitting deep booming sounds to attract females. The capercaillie is a primarily herbivorous bird, feeding on a variety of plant matter, including leaves, buds, berries, and shoots. It is a secretive and elusive bird, often found in densely forested areas. The capercaillie is an iconic species of the boreal forest and a symbol of wilderness and natural beauty.

Examples

1. The chances are you've never even heard of the Capercaillie unless you happen to live in the Scottish Highlands, where they're mostly found nowadays.

2. Besides its sheer size and imposing appearance, the male Capercaillie is also famed for its interesting vocalizations.

3. Capercaillie's actually went extinct in Britain in the 18th century before a reintroduction project began in Scotland in the 1830s, and there are presently only around 1,000 left in the wild.

4. But the greatest example of the liberated female is this animal: the Australian brushturkey It is related to the turkeys and capercaillies, and the males build nests of up to four tonnes in weight, piling vegetable matter up to form a heap up to one metre high.

Nearby words

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cappelletti

cappuccino