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Birds
Rock ptarmigan
Rock ptarmigan · Lagopus muta ssp. islandorum
The Icelandic rock ptarmigan blends in perfectly with snow-covered landscapes and is a fascinating bird to observe.
Fact file
- Size
- Body length between 35 and 40 cm, males slightly larger than females.
- Males and females
- Males have more striking plumage than females and are larger.
- Sounds
- They produce a rattling sound when alarmed.
- Diet
- They feed mainly on plants, including grasses, berries and buds.
- Offspring
- Females lay 6 to 8 eggs, which are incubated for about 21 days.
How to identify Rock ptarmigan
The Icelandic rock ptarmigan has feathered, white plumage in winter, which camouflages it perfectly in snow-covered landscapes. In summer it shows a brownish mottled colouring that resembles the alpine vegetation.
It has a compact build with a body length of about 35 to 40 centimetres. Males are on average larger than females and often have more striking patterns in their plumage.
More in the app
With Wildful Stories+ you also get in the app:
- general viewing tips
- one place where you can see Rock ptarmigan
Where Rock ptarmigan live
Iceland
Discover Rock ptarmigan on your trip.
The app shows you where and when to see wildlife along your route.
