Hazel Grouse
About hazel grouse hunting
The hazel grouse is the smallest of the forest grouse and often the hardest to hunt. It lives in pairs or small groups in dense forest and flushes short and low between the trees. Many grouse hunters encounter hazel grouse by chance during other hunts.
Calling with a hazel grouse whistle is an exciting and effective method. The hazel grouse responds to the whistle and may fly right in to the hunter. It takes patience and practice to master the technique.
Hunting with a pointing dog is possible, but the terrain is often so dense that the dog struggles to work effectively. Many prefer to walk quietly through typical hazel grouse habitat and take the chances as they come.
A 20-gauge with fine shot (5–6) is well suited. The hazel grouse is small and tender and doesn't need much hitting energy.
Hunting Season
10 Sep – 28/29 Feb
Weight
300–450 g
Distribution
The hazel grouse is found in coniferous forest across Southern and Central Norway, and parts of Northern Norway. It is most numerous in Innlandet, Trøndelag and the inner parts of Western Norway.
Terrain
Dense mixed forest of spruce, birch and alder is typical hazel grouse terrain. It prefers shady, damp valley sides with thick undergrowth and access to streams.
Identification
Brownish-grey, with a black throat patch on the male. A compact bird with a short tail. Extremely well camouflaged.
Hunting Tips
Learn to use a hazel grouse whistle. It is one of the most effective methods. Hazel grouse terrain is typically along streams in dense mixed forest.
Hazel Grouse hunting by county
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