it can happen sometimes, but is still very frustrating. Use a shotgun. bring a dog (any dog!) if possible. try to reach the bird, or at least zero in on the exact location, while it's still fluttering. as others have said, check for holes, under roots, rocks, anywhere. look very carefully, since even when lying stone dead in the open, they can blend in with the surroundings very well. good luck!
I can identify with that, I lost 3 grouse on one weekend 2 weeks ago. It was very frustrating. 2 were ruffed and one was a blue. I find that with spruce grouse, any kind of a hit puts them down on the spot. That's not true of Ruffed grouse. I was going to start the same thread but you beat me to it. All 3 were fatal hits but all 3 flew away. I spent a looonnnng time looking and didn't find them. Yes a dog would help but I was deer hunting at the time.
Last edited by Foxton Gundogs; 11-12-2014 at 07:03 PM.
"BORN TO HUNT"
Foxton's Cuervo Gold "KEELA" Oct. 2004-June 2017. Always in my blind and my heart.
move quickly to the bird once it is down and fluttering. often they will go into the nearest depression or under something like a log, bush or hollow. ruffed grouse can be extremely difficult to spot, even out in the open, a dead grouse blends in perfectly with the forest floor.
i avoid shots that would have the bird fall into heavy undergrowth. it's a tough choice to make, but it's ethical.
both guns, a .22 or a shotgun, have their advantages, and should be a personal preference. try both, see what you like better.
dogs can be a great help, but aren't necessary. especially if you don't have one.
put in a good effort searching, but don't beat yourself up if you fail to find one. it happens to everybody.
being quick to the kill is the best method.