Bird-viewing blinds available April 1 at Buffalo Gao Grassland

Grouse Viewing blind on Buffalo Gap National Grassland. (Courtesy photo)

WALL — Viewing blinds on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland will be open for public use starting April 1. These blinds give visitors an opportunity to observe the unique courtship dances of sharp tailed grouse and greater prairie chicken up close.

Each spring, male sharp tailed grouse and greater prairie chickens gather on traditional mating grounds, known as leks, to perform elaborate dances to attract females. These lek sites can remain active for decades. The displays typically begin before dawn and continue for an hour or more after sunrise. Viewing blinds allow visitors to watch and photograph these spring rituals without disturbing the birds.

The Buffalo Gap National Grassland will offer two viewing blinds— one primarily for observing sharp tailed grouse and another placed for viewing the more localized and less abundant greater prairie chicken. Although the differences between the two species can be subtle to general observers, their mating seasons overlap. Blind locations and further informational packets about species can be found on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland’s grouse viewing blind information webpage.

“Visitors should plan to arrive about an hour before sunrise to ensure the grouse remain calm as daylight comes and their activity increases,” said Lead Wildlife Technician Ashley Merkel. “Arriving late can cause the birds to stop displaying or move away for long periods. We also ask that you remain quietly seated in the blind for at least an hour after sunrise to avoid disrupting their mating behavior.”

The blinds feature several small viewing windows and can accommodate up to four adults. Visitors are encouraged to bring camp chairs, water, snacks, blankets for cool mornings, a flashlight, binoculars and a camera to capture this seasonal spectacle.

For more information and directions, contact your local ranger district office, email SM.FS.nnf_ info@ usda.gov, or visit the office Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Office Contact Number: Wall Ranger District Office: 605-279-2126

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