Ptarmigan - Lagopus mutus
(tärm-gn)

noun a grouse of northern mountains and the Arctic, having grey and black plumage which changes to white in winter. — ORIGIN Scottish Gaelic tàrmachan

The ptarmigan is a plump gamebird, slightly larger than a grey partridge. In summer, is a mixture of grey, brown and black above with white bellies and wings. In winter, it becomes totally white except for its tail and eye-patch. It breeds in the highest mountains of the Highlands of Scotland on the Arctic like landscape there. Birds are residents, seldom moving far from breeding sites. In severe cold weather, birds may move from the highest ground to the edge of forests.

Where does it live?
High mountains above 1,000m among the boulders and scree.

Where to see it?
The only place to see it is on the highest mountains of the highlands of Scotland.

What does it eat?
Shoots, leaves, leaf buds, berries and insects.

What does it sound like?
Its call is a harsh croak and rasping noises; its alarm call is a grating sound.

When to see it
All year round.