Started tagging along with Dad in the late 70's. Been packing a shotgun every year since 1981. Took me all season to kill my first one. February 1982 killed one out of a covey of a dozen. Common in those days to see groups of 3 to 8, been a long time since I've seen more than two at once. Hard to find singles these days, I think grouse are most likely at or near historic lows today in the southern Appalachians.
Recd this from Upland Almanac link this week: http://www.middlesborodailynews.com/news/news/151997135/Grouse-gaining-ground-in-area
Cannot believe they published that article. It pisses me off, as the last thing the grouse need is publicity bringing more pressure on them right now