The greater sage grouse is known for its unique mating ritual that involves a colorful display of feathers and puffing air into its chest to impress females. Now, the bird's population is dwindling and it could end up on the endangered species list. If that happens, legislators say it could cause big problems for renewable energy projects in rural Nevada.

 

One legislator has created a bill aimed at protecting the sage grouse to keep it off the endangered species. We'll talk with Assemblyman David Bobzien and a representative from U.S. Fish and Wildlife about how a small bird could cost the state billions.

 

GUESTS:

David Bobzien, assemblyman, D-Reno

Dan Buford, acting state supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Nevada office