In the case of the ptarmigan the evidence is clear that the existing autumnal feathers do change, more or less completely, to white.
In the northern mountains the ptarmigan is common, and like other creatures assumes a white winter dress; ducks and other water-fowl frequent the lakes; the golden eagle, certain buzzards and owls are found, and among smaller birds the Lappland bunting (Plectrophanes laponicus) may be mentioned.
The statement that it may be possible to hear ptarmigan is ironic.
At high altitudes the mountain plover is found; the dusky grouse haunts the forests above 8000 ft.; the white-tailed ptarmigan is resident in the alpine regions; and on the plains are found the prairie sharp-tailed grouse and the sage-hen.
A bird that is found on barren expanses of loose rocks at altitudes of up to 3,500 meters is the ptarmigan.