Species: Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
Family: Phasianidae
The Western Capercaillie, also known as the Wood Grouse, has a distinctive and unusual call, especially from the male during the breeding season. What Do Western Capercaillie Sound Like? Here’s a breakdown of the sounds they make:
Male Capercaillie Call:
The male’s call consists of a complex, multi-phase sound that is unlike most bird calls. It is typically described as having four distinct parts:
- Clicking or Knocking Phase:
A series of sharp, clicking, or popping sounds that resemble the sound of someone tapping wood or clinking stones together. - Trill Phase:
A rapid sequence of clicks that form a rolling trill, somewhat similar to mechanical whirring. - Cork-Popping Sound:
A single, distinct “plop” or “pop” sound that is reminiscent of a cork being pulled from a bottle. This is one of the most iconic aspects of the call. - Wheezing or Hissing Endnote:
A soft, airy hissing or wheezing sound that can last for several seconds.
These sounds are typically produced during the male’s display known as “lekking” in the spring when they perform visually and vocally to attract females.
Female Capercaillie Sounds:
The female is generally quieter but may produce clucking or soft croaking sounds, especially when alarmed or while communicating with her chicks.
