Gunnison Sage Grouse Listed as Threatened

In late 2014, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife listed the Gunnison sage grouse as a threatened species. The FWS is currently working on a 4(d) rule for the grouse. Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act allows the FWS to establish special regulations for threatened species. Spring is here, and Gunnison sage grouse are dancing at sunrise to attract mates. Gunnison sage grouse are one of the most imperiled species in the United States. Fewer than 5,000 of these birds remain, occurring in less than 10 percent of their historic range. The remaining small and isolated populations at risk due to habitat fragmentation and other threats.SMA works with the San Miguel Basin Gunnison Sage-Grouse Working Group, which has been working diligently on habitat restoration and encouraging private landowners to enter into habitat conservation easements. This work is critical, as there are fewer than 300 sage-grouse remaining in San Miguel County.Currently, we're working with several groups to improve sage-grouse habitat by controlling erosion and improving wet meadow habitat. We also provide education about grouse to students and the public. If you'd like to get involved in efforts to protect the Gunnison sage grouse, please join or donate to SMA or contact us at info@sheepmountainalliance.org.