"The Endearing Charm of Mister Grouse: Forest's Friendliest Bird"
Scientists are studying the genetic anomaly of a chromosomal inversion in ruffed grouse to understand why some of these birds become unusually friendly with humans. A retiree in Pennsylvania named Bill Hartline has befriended a ruffed grouse named Mister Grouse, who follows him around, rides on his shoulders, and even throws himself under the car to prevent him from leaving. Researchers have discovered that a significant number of grouse samples exhibit this genetic anomaly, which can result in unusual behaviors. The study aims to determine if the friendliness of birds like Mister Grouse is linked to this genetic variation.