What is a "lek" anyway?

Define a "lek." A place where males gather to put on an impressive show to attract a mate, and females wander by to check out their options. Audubon calls it a place where the "quirkiest mating party on earth" happens.

A lek is really an area defined by different kinds of animals including fish, mammals and insects. When it comes to grouse, they may choose to use a simple dip in the earth that amplifies sound or higher elevation where sound echos far across the countryside, sometimes heard three miles away. 

It is often hard to identify a lek without someone pointing one out. Often times grouse rely on scent chemicals or specific soils to identify the same lek they return to year after year. 

Once the morning show concluded, Christine and I check out the lek for tell tale signs. Feathers and excrement litter the area and signs of new plant life is scattered about. 

Much is left to learn about leks and dedicated researchers, biologists and grouse enthusiasts work hard to better understand the attraction for grassland birds. 

Please let us know your thoughts by leaving comments below. Questions? Feel free to contact Sandy or Christine and we will do our best to find an answer. Hope you are enjoying Chicks on a Grouse Trip!

Comments

  1. amazonjulieApril 9, 2022 at 10:31 AM

    I am enjoying your blog.
    Thanks !!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. christine penceApril 9, 2022 at 1:22 PM

      We are so happy you are traveling virtually with us!

      Delete
    2. amazonjulieApril 10, 2022 at 7:22 AM

      Loving the pictures, too!!

      Delete
    3. christine penceApril 10, 2022 at 10:53 AM

      Super...we will get more posted. This morning we had to get out to the lek early: 3:45 am boarding the van to get to the lek.

      Delete

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