Habitat: Mixed and poplar forests.

Description: Small head crest, mottled reddish or grey-brown with a black shoulder patch, and a dark band on the tail.

Size: 38-78cm long.

Diet: Aspen buds, willow catkins and insects.

Fun Facts: During mating season the male will "drum" or beat the air with his wings while standing on a fallen log.  The vibration can be felt for ong distances in the forest.

Source: Fisher, C. and J. Acorn.  Birds of Alberta.  1998.  Lone Pine Publishing.