There are 2 versions the Lesser and Greater Prairie Chicken Wikipedia has articles on both Lesser: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lesser_Prairie_Chicken Greater: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_Prairie_Chicken They say it is a distant relative of the Grouse.

Mainly wild plant seeds and berries, and insects.

The scientific name for the prairie chicken is Tympanuchus cupido. It is a type of bird species native to North America, known for its unique mating displays and booming calls during the breeding season.

John A Crawford has written:

'A bibliography of the lesser prairie chicken, 1873-1980' -- subject(s): Bibliography, Prairie chickens, Wildlife management

Attwater's Prairie Chicken was created in 1893.