Rock Ptarmigan
Lagopus muta
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Galliformes · Phasianidae
About
The rock ptarmigan is a medium-sized game bird in the grouse family. It is known simply as the ptarmigan in Europe. It is the official bird for the Canadian territory of Nunavut, where it is known as the aqiggiq (ᐊᕿᒡᒋᖅ), and the official game bird for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. In Japan, it is known as the raichō (雷鳥), which means "thunder bird"; it is the official bird of Gifu, Nagano, and Toyama Prefectures and is a protected species nationwide.
Fun Fact
Rock ptarmigan change plumage three times a year — white in winter, mottled grey-brown in spring and autumn, and darker brown in summer — providing near-perfect camouflage in every season.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Alpine tundra and rocky slopes
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
6-8 years
Threats
- Infrastructure Development
- Grazing Pressure