The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ latest ruffed grouse counts found Minnesota’s spring 2026 population declined from its peak in 2024. Ruffed grouse drums per stop were 1.7 statewide, which is down slightly from last year. Drumming is a low sound produced by males as they beat their wings rapidly and in increased frequency to signal the location of their territory. Drumming displays also attract females ready to begin breeding.