willow ptarmigan

American  

noun

1. a ptarmigan, Lagopus lagopus, of Arctic and subarctic regions of the New and Old Worlds, having brown, mottled plumage in summer and white plumage in winter.

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Etymology

Origin of willow ptarmigan

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75

Example Sentences

A chicken-like bird, the willow ptarmigan sports a rust-colored coat during warmer seasons.

From National Geographic

Willow ptarmigan flourish in the Arctic’s northern tundra.

From National Geographic

Long white feathers coat the willow ptarmigan during winter, along with a few black tail feathers.

From National Geographic

Willow ptarmigan flourish in the Arctic’s northern tundra.

From National Geographic

Long white feathers coat the willow ptarmigan during winter, along with a few black tail feathers.

From National Geographic