Meadow utilization by sage grouse was studied for two summers at three locations in Nevada. The principal methods used included observation and collection of birds and vegetational description of the meadow and surrounding sagebrush vegetation types. Movements to the meadow areas were apparently stimulated by the dessication of vegetation in the sagebrush types. Meadows were used almost exclusively by hens and young birds with only a few cocks being observed in the drier of two summers studied. A pattern of use was evident while the birds were on the meadows. Variations in use, however, occurred with varying climatological conditions. Segregation of cocks, hens with chicks and hens without chicks was evident, but the degree of segregation was also dependent upon climatological conditions. Hens and chicks, however, would congregate only at those portions of meadows having some meadow vegetation. Bare portions of the meadows or water sources lacking the desired vegetation would be ignored by this group. Food habits of the various ages and sexes of birds showed a high preference for certain species of succulent forbs by young birds and hens. The meadow, as a sole source of the desired food species became a necessity to these groups. Consumption of forbs decreased with age in the young birds and by fall with the older birds. Movement away from the meadows was associated with the decreasing temperatures and precipitation of fall.
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