White-tailed ptarmigan

Scientific name: Lagopus leucura

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Both sexes are mottled brown and grey in summer, transitioning to pure white plumage in winter; the white tail is diagnostic year-round. Males are slightly larger and darker in breeding plumage; females are more cryptic.

Size and weight

Adults weigh 300–450 g; body length 25–28 cm. Males average 370–400 g; females 330–360 g.

Habitat

White-tailed ptarmigan inhabit high alpine tundra and rocky slopes above treeline, typically between 2,400–4,300 m elevation. They prefer areas with sparse vegetation, dwarf willows, sedges, and lichen-covered rocks.

Distribution

Found in western North America from British Columbia and Alberta south through the Rocky Mountains to New Mexico and California. Populations are restricted to high alpine zones above treeline.

Diet

White-tailed ptarmigan feed on alpine vegetation including willow buds and catkins, sedge shoots, forbs, and berries; in winter they rely heavily on willow buds and lichen.

Behaviour

Diurnal and crepuscular feeders, most active early morning and late afternoon. They are sedentary year-round, moving only short distances to track snow line and forage; typically solitary or in small family groups outside breeding season.

Hunting tips

Look for white droppings and small rounded tracks in snow or soft ground near rocky outcrops and dwarf willow patches. Approach slowly and quietly upwind across broken terrain, using ridges and rock features for cover. Birds often freeze rather than flush; scan carefully with binoculars before moving into new areas, and expect sudden explosive flight when close.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 2 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.