If Europeans ever got a taste of ruffed grouse, they would be trying to figure out a way to establish them, there. As far as I know, Hickory grouse aren't found outside of very northern Europe, mostly in areas of Russia, and don't compare as table fare to it's North American cousin.

I also wonder about the whys of lower grouse population, which, is affecting us here, too. There are many more predators than when I was a kid. It is also thought that some populations of different bird species will not survive West Nile. I hope the answer to the riddle is something we can change.

Best,
Ted