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Ptarmigan

©Tom Marshall

Ptarmigan flock

©Mark Hamblin/2020VISION

Ptarmigan

©Margaret Holland

Ptarmigan

©Stuart Anthony

Ptarmigan

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Scientific name: Lagopus mutus
The ptarmigan is a master of disguise - matching its Highland surroundings perfectly by turning snow-white in winter and rock-grey in summer. It is confined to the mountains of Scotland, so is difficult to spot.

Top facts

Stats

Length: 34-36cm

Wingspan: 54-60cm

Weight: 400-500g
Average lifespan: 3-4 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Red under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).

When to see

January to December

About

The ptarmigan, also known as the 'rock ptarmigan', is a plump bird, a little larger than a grey partridge. It is exclusively found in the Scottish Highlands. Mature birds eat seeds, berries, nuts and leaves, while juveniles also eat invertebrates. When breeding, males usually mate with one hen, producing one brood a year of around seven eggs.

What to look for

In winter, the ptarmigan has thick, snow-white plumage. It moults in summer, becoming a flecked mixture of brown, grey and black.

Where to find

Found only in the Scottish Highlands.

Did you know?

Male ptarmigans can be identified by the bright red eye-patches they sport in the summer. In winter, they turn almost completely white to blend into their cold, snowy surroundings.