This close-up of a willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) shows the transformation of its plumage from dappled brown to snow white that the bird uses as camouflage for protection against predators when the season changes from summer to winter in Alaska, USA. Another distinctive feature is its feathered feet, which helps this sedentary bird walk on frozen ground. The willow ptarmigan is the largest of three species of Arctic grouse found in Alaska, which include the rock ptamigan and the white-tailed ptarmigan. The willow ptarmigan is Alaska's official state bird.

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This close-up of a willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) shows the transformation of its plumage from dappled brown to snow white that the bird uses as camouflage for protection against predators when the season changes from summer to winter in Alaska, USA. Another distinctive feature is its feathered feet, which helps this sedentary bird walk on frozen ground. The willow ptarmigan is the largest of three species of Arctic grouse found in Alaska, which include the rock ptamigan and the white-tailed ptarmigan. The willow ptarmigan was named Alaska's official state bird when the former Alaska Territory became America's 49th state in 1959.

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Size: 3702px × 2532px
Location: Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA
Photo credit: © Michele and Tom Grimm / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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