Wildlife habitat on rangelands is one of the most pressing conservation issues in western North America. Nearly all western upland gamebird species rely on rangeland habitats. USU Extension's Rangeland-Wildlife Habitat Lab focuses on providing the best available scientific information concerning the assessment of management and conservation practices for these species, especially our native grouse species.
Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta)
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Found across the arctic region and high-elevations of the Northern Hemisphere
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Natural habitat is mid-elevation tundra and high elevation treeless areas in Europe
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Pair off for breeding, and male aids in rearing of young
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Turn white in the winter, but their tail feathers remain black
Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
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Found across the northern latitudes within the Northern Hemisphere
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Natural habitat is lower elevation tundra or heather covered moorlands
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Red Grouse are a subspecies that occur on the British Isles and do not change color in the winter
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Pair off for breeding with males aiding in rearing of young
White-Tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucura)
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Found in Utah
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Found throughout the highest elevation tundra across the Northern Hemisphere and areas of alpine tundra in the Rocky Mountains
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Natural habitat is high mountain/alpine tundra
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Smallest bird in the grouse family in North America
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Pair off for breeding and the male aids in rearing of young