Rock or Willow Ptarmigan?

[Scott Grant]

taken on high barrens (1500+ feet) in Western Newfoundland, Canada, in April of 2007.

[Doug Hitchcox]

I don't know ptarmigans well at all, but given that it has this plumage during april, I am going to say its a Willow Ptarmigan. The courtship and breeding plumage of willows seems more brown/rusty as your bird has than the dirt colored rock ptarmigan. Very nice picture BTW. Great job getting some good detail in those whites

[Paul Lagasi]

I second that its a Willow Ptarmigan, stoutness of the bill, red eye strip and lack of black eye strip (distinctive of Rock Ptarmigan).

[Scott Grant]

thank you both! very much appreciated!

[Wayne Richardson]

Hi Scott

I second that its a Willow Ptarmigan, stoutness of the bill, red eye strip and lack of black eye strip (distinctive of Rock Ptarmigan).

I agree with Paul, but add that the black eye stripe is an exclusively male Rock Ptarmigan ID feature. Comments made by Doug are also equally valid. Although neither have actually stated this individual is a male grouse, the developing red wattle is the clincher together with plumage details they have already highlighted.

Cheers: Wayne

PS: We don't have this problem in the UK because Willow Ptarmigan (Red Grouse) don't turn white in winter! :)