[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]Dean Eades photographed this snow white Ptarmigan on an equally snowy mountainside in Scotland. In summer these birds have mottled grey/brown plumage to blend in with the rocks and heather, but in winter they change to this beautiful white camouflage. Perfect for the 2013 April weather!
Scientific name: Lagopus mutus
Size: Up to 38cm
Distribution: Found mainly in the north of Scotland
Months seen: All year round
Habitat: Mountainsides and moorland with plenty of heather
Food: Heather and bilberry
Special features: In summer the plumage of the ptarmigan provides excellent camouflage against the lichen covered rocks in its surroundings. In winter the plumage changes to match the snow covered mountains of its environment. The ptarmigan becomes completely white except for some black markings around each eye and the tail. Because it has to endure such cold temperatures, even the toes of the ptarmigan are feathered.
The ptarmigan breeding season is between April and June, when you may see males fighting over females. The nest is made on the ground and the female produces cream eggs which are marked with brown spots.
Sat Apr 06, 2013 9:02 am