Breeding Habitat Differences
Dusky Grouse breed in shrub/steppe and grassland areas, in alpine or subalpine ecotones, or in forest in or bordering montane areas. Dry terrain, from the very hot to the very cold and montane, may also be used.
Sooty Grouse favor montane, fairly open forest ranging from lower tree line to alpine. Abundance of herbs, grass, and shrubs appear to be important in a breeding location.