Final answer:
During mating season, grouse can be heard "drumming," a behavior where males beat their wings to attract females and establish dominance. This distinguishes them from other upland game birds like quail, pheasants, and doves, which have different mating rituals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The upland game bird that may be heard "drumming" during mating season is C. Grouse. During the spring mating season, male grouse perform a fascinating display called "drumming" which involves beating their wings in a rapid, repetitive fashion to create a low-frequency sound. This drumming serves not only to attract females but also to establish dominance over other males.
Grouse are not the only birds to use sounds during mating rituals. Many bird species employ a variety of calls and displays to attract mates. For instance, peacocks spread their vibrant tails, while bowerbirds build elaborate structures and decorate them to impress potential partners. However, the distinctive drumming behavior is associated specifically with grouse, particularly the Sage Grouse, which is known for its elaborate mating displays on leks (communal breeding grounds).