• The ruffed grouse has a partially feathered tarsus without spurs, and at the very bottom it is covered with scutes.

Ruffed grouse young have down feathers that are a soft yellow-brown color, which effectively retains heat; adult birds have a short and strong beak suited for nipping leaves and buds, and a collar of long black feathers on the neck that males raise during courtship displays to appear larger. The species' plumage is grey-brown with dark stripes, aiding in camouflage amongst trees and foliage, and it possesses a wide tail with a dark stripe at the end, used for balance and signaling. Ruffed grouse have two wings which are short and broad, enabling rapid takeoffs and utilized by males to produce a drumming sound.