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Rock Ptarmigan

Lagopus muta

An alpine master of disguise, this hardy bird changes its feathers with the seasons to blend seamlessly into its rugged mountain habitat.
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Visual Identification

Appearance

The Rock Ptarmigan exhibits remarkable seasonal plumage changes. In winter, both sexes are predominantly white, blending seamlessly with snowy landscapes, although they have black tails and reddish 'eyebrows', known as a comb.

Males can be identified by their more prominent comb and the black streak between their eyes and bill. The bird has a stocky build with a short, hooked bill, dark eyes and feathered feet.

During summer, males develop mottled grey and brown plumage, while females and juveniles show a more cryptic pattern of brown, black, and buff. Both sexes retain white wings year-round.

Size

Length

34cm to 36cm

Wingspan

54cm to 60cm

Weight

400g to 750g

Colours

Males and females have similar plumage

Primary Colour

White Brown

Secondary Colour

Grey Black Red

Beak Colour

Black

Leg Colour

White

Habitat and Distribution

Habitats

Woodland

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Woodland habitats.

Garden

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Garden habitats.

Wetland

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Wetland habitats.

Coastal

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Coastal habitats.

Urban

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Urban habitats.

Farmland

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Farmland habitats.

Grassland

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Grassland habitats.

Desert

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Desert habitats.

Tundra

The Rock Ptarmigan can be found in Tundra habitats.

Rainforest

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Rainforest habitats.

Mountain

The Rock Ptarmigan can be found in Mountain habitats.

Savanna

The Rock Ptarmigan is not typically found in Savanna habitats.

Distribution

Rock Ptarmigans inhabit arctic and alpine tundra across North America, Europe, and Asia. They prefer rocky, sparsely vegetated areas with low-growing plants. These birds are found in Alaska, northern Canada, Greenland, and mountainous regions of Scotland and Scandinavia.

During harsh winters, some populations may move to slightly lower elevations or more sheltered areas, but generally remain in their high-altitude habitats year-round.

Elevation Range

2,000 to 5,000 metres

Climate zones

Arctic, Subarctic, Alpine

Distribution Map

This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Rock Ptarmigan. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
  • Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
  • This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations

We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:

  • More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
  • How birds move around during different seasons