\Grouse\, n. sing. & pl. [Prob. after the analogy of
mouse, mice, fr. the earlier grice, OF. griesche meor hen:
cf. F. piegri[`e]che shrike.] (Zo["o]l.)
Any of the numerous species of gallinaceous birds of the
family {Tetraonid[ae]}, and subfamily {Tetraonin[ae]},
inhabiting Europe, Asia, and North America. They have plump
bodies, strong, well-feathered legs, and usually mottled
plumage. The group includes the ptarmigans ({Lagopus}),
having feathered feet.
Note: Among the European species are the red grouse ({Lagopus
      Scoticus}) and the hazel grouse ({Bonasa betulina}).
      See {Capercaidzie}, {Ptarmigan}, and {Heath grouse}.
      Among the most important American species are the
      ruffed grouse, or New England partridge ({Bonasa
      umbellus}); the sharp-tailed grouse ({Pedioc[ae]tes
      phasianellus}) of the West; the dusky blue, or pine
      grouse ({Dendragapus obscurus}) of the Rocky Mountains;
      the Canada grouse, or spruce partridge ({D.
      Canadensis}). See also {Prairie hen}, and {Sage cock}.
      The Old World sand grouse ({Pterocles}, etc.) belong to
      a very different family. See {Pterocletes}, and {Sand
      grouse}.

\Grouse\, v. i.
To seek or shoot grouse.