Species profile
About this species
The Willow Ptarmigan is a medium-sized gamebird belonging to the grouse family, found across Arctic & subarctic regions of Europe, Asia & North America. It is the only ptarmigan species in which the male assists in raising the chicks, & it undergoes a remarkable seasonal plumage change from mottled brown in summer to almost entirely white in winter. In Norway's Varanger peninsula it is a key species of the tundra ecosystem, providing a vital food source for predators such as Arctic Fox & Snowy Owl.
Open Arctic & subarctic tundra, moorland & willow scrub, particularly areas with dwarf willow & birch which provide both food & shelter throughout the year. In winter, birds congregate in valleys & sheltered slopes where wind-blown snow exposes vegetation.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Willow Ptarmigan with us in Norway.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Alison Jenkins helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late March to early April is excellent, coinciding with the Arctic Wildlife & Winter Wildlife of Arctic Varanger & Winter Wildlife of Arctic Varanger trips, when birds are in striking winter or transitional plumage against snow-covered tundra. Overcast midday light or the low-angled golden light of the Arctic spring morning & afternoon provides the most flattering conditions for capturing plumage detail.
In late March & early April during the Arctic Wildlife & Winter Wildlife of Arctic Varanger trips, birds are transitioning between winter white & summer plumage, offering striking mixed-tone subjects - use a low angle to shoot at eye level against snow for dramatic compositions. On the Winter Wildlife of Arctic Varanger trip in early April, look for birds sheltering in willow scrub where they feed on buds, allowing patient close approaches - use a long lens of 400mm or more to avoid disturbing them. Overcast Arctic light reduces harsh shadows & glare from snow, making it ideal for exposing correctly on white plumage - use positive exposure compensation of +1 to +2 stops to prevent the camera metering from underexposing the white birds.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Willow Ptarmigan
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.