Rock ptarmigan Lagopus mutus


Identification Tips:

Male alternate:

Female alternate:

Basic:

Similar species:

The Rock Ptarmigan can be told from all plumages of the White-tailed Ptarmigan by its black, not white, tail. Male Willow Ptarmigans in alternate plumage have a redder plumage while male Rock Ptarmigans in basic plumage have distinctive black eyelines. Females are more difficult to tell apart but the Rock Ptarmigan has somewhat finer markings and a smaller black bill.