The Ptarmigan are three species of Grouse who make their home in tundra or cold upland areas. He is a hardy vegetarian, with chicks feeding on insects. This Willow Ptamigan feeds predominantly on willows: leaves, buds and catkins. In the winter months, most species (excluding the Red Grouse, a subspecies of the Willow) moult out their browner plumage in favour of white, allowing them to camouflage against their snowy environment. The male Willow Ptarmigan's wattles, usually indistinct above his eyes, turn a vivid red in the breeding season, a stark contrast to his bright head. Males gather together in breeding areas, setting up and defending their territories in preparation for the arrival of the females. Here he courts his potential mate, and forms a (more-or-less) monogamous relationship.
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