Rock & White-tailed Ptarmigan

[Gord]

Carlo went to UBC and examined some skins of the two species. He took some pictures and shared them with me and blessed the sharing of them with you all as well.

Thanks Carlo! Even looking at the pictures I found it to be quite informative.

White-tailed on the left, rock on the right. There are chicks in there too for a challenge on the challenge.




Rock on the left, white-tailed on the right.




Close ups





Tails of rock ptarmigan. Not really black are they!



A ptarmigan scramble. Any guesses? They all look obvious, but one isnt what it looks like at first glance.

[Gord]

Had some time to study these more.

Overall size doesnt seem to be much of a factor. The group that went up and enjoyed looking at over 20 all together can testify to this fact as between chicks and what not, there was a considerable size variance.

Colour and markings seems to be more consistant, although one of the white-tails is pretty warm coloured.

I dont think anyone can be blamed for wishing to view the tail to confirm the bird's ID.

Here is a picture of a ptarmigan hen from late June. Sure looks warm in colour!




But when it gets up and walks away, you can see the tail.




Ugh. A good challenge!