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White-tailed Ptarmigan Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A plump chickenlike bird with a short neck, small head and bill, and large, feathered feet. The wings are short and rounded.

    Relative Size

    This is the smallest grouse species in North America. Slightly smaller than a Rock Ptarmigan; larger than a California Quail.

    Relative Sizecrow sizedcrow-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes