Ruffed Grouse

SD Ruffed Grouse Hunting Guide

SDUpland
Bonasa umbellusSouth DakotaUpland

Also known as: Partridge (colloquial), Ruffie

The ruffed grouse is a medium-sized grouse occurring in forests from the Appalachian Mountains across Canada to Alaska. It is the most widely distributed game bird in North America. It is not migratory. It is the only species in the genus Bonasa. The ruffed grouse is sometimes incorrectly referred to as a "partridge", an unrelated phasianid, and occasionally confused with the grey partridge, a bird of open areas rather than woodlands.

Hunting Season

Typically Sep 19 - Jan 31 (similar to prairie grouse season). Primarily found in the Black Hills region.

Bag Limit: Varies annually. Typically 5-10 birds per day. Check current SD GFP regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regulations for hunting Ruffed Grouse in South Dakota

Ruffed grouse hunting in South Dakota is primarily in the Black Hills region. Seasons typically run from mid-September through January. Bag limits vary by year based on population surveys. A Small Game License and habitat stamp are required.

When is Ruffed Grouse hunting season in South Dakota?

Typically Sep 19 - Jan 31 (similar to prairie grouse season). Primarily found in the Black Hills region.

What is the bag limit for Ruffed Grouse in South Dakota?

Varies annually. Typically 5-10 birds per day. Check current SD GFP regulations.

What's another name for Ruffed Grouse?

Ruffed Grouse is also known as Partridge (colloquial), Ruffie in South Dakota.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
South Dakota Hunting Regulations Season Dates Typically Sep 19 - Jan 31 (similar to prairie grouse season). Primarily found in the Black Hills region. Link
South Dakota Hunting Regulations Regulations Ruffed grouse hunting in South Dakota is primarily in the Black Hills region. Seasons typically run from mid-September t Link