Alaska State Bird: Willow Ptarmigan
Fact-checked • Updated November 23, 2025
Alaska State Bird – Willow Ptarmigan
Alaska designated the Willow Ptarmigan as its official bird in 1955, two years before statehood. Territorial schoolchildren supported the choice in a public vote. Adults shift from brown summer plumage to white winter feathers. The species lives across Arctic regions. Ptarmigan have long served as a food source for Alaska Native communities.
Why Alaska Chose the Willow Ptarmigan as the State Bird
Alaska schoolchildren selected the Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) in 1955 as the territory’s bird. The Alaska Legislature made the choice official on February 4, 1955, and Governor B. Frank Heintzleman signed the bill into law.
Alaska is the only state with a ptarmigan as its state bird. This Arctic grouse lives throughout Alaska year-round and is one of the most recognizable birds of the far north.
The Willow Ptarmigan’s seasonal plumage—white in winter and brown in summer—provides essential camouflage in snow and tundra, helping it survive harsh winters.
The species also holds deep importance for Alaska Native peoples. Athabascan, Yup'ik, and Inupiaq communities have hunted ptarmigan for generations. Its reliability as a winter food source made it a natural choice for the state bird of Alaska.
History of Adoption: Legislation & Timeline
-
Pre-1955 — Traditional Importance
For thousands of years, Alaska Native communities relied on the Willow Ptarmigan as a dependable year-round food source. Its abundance in winter made it vital for survival in remote regions.
-
1955 — Territorial Selection
Territorial schoolchildren voted to select an official bird. The Willow Ptarmigan won due to its widespread range, cultural importance, and unique Arctic adaptations.
-
February 4, 1955 — Legislature Acts
The Alaska Territorial Legislature formally designated the Willow Ptarmigan as the official bird. Governor B. Frank Heintzleman signed the bill the same day.
-
January 3, 1959 — Statehood
Alaska became the 49th state, and the Willow Ptarmigan automatically remained the official state bird without additional legislation.
-
Current Law
Alaska Statute 44.09.060 states: “The willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) is the official bird of the state.”
Symbolism & Cultural Meaning
Survival and Adaptation
The Willow Ptarmigan symbolizes Alaska’s resilience. Its seasonal plumage allows it to blend into snow and tundra, representing the adaptability needed to thrive in extreme northern environments.
Alaska Native Heritage
The bird plays an important role in Alaska Native culture. Hunting traditions, stories, and community life often include ptarmigan, reflecting the close relationship between people and land.
Year-Round Resident
Unlike many Arctic birds, the Willow Ptarmigan stays in Alaska throughout winter. This constant presence mirrors the determination of Alaskans who live year-round in the far north.
Unique Arctic Symbol
As the only state with a ptarmigan, Alaska holds a uniquely Arctic state bird not found in the lower 48 states.
Physical Characteristics
Winter Plumage
In winter, Willow Ptarmigan turn almost entirely white, except for black tail feathers. Males have a red comb above each eye, and their feathered feet function like natural snowshoes.
Summer Plumage
In summer, they display rich brown and gold feathers with black barring. Wings and belly stay white. Females blend closely with tundra plants, while males show warmer reddish tones.
Spring and Fall Transition
During spring and fall molts, birds show a mottled mix of brown and white feathers. These transitional coats match melting or early-season snow.
Size and Build
Willow Ptarmigan have a stocky build, rounded wings for quick flight bursts, and dense feather coverage extending to the toes. Males are slightly larger than females.
Behavior & Habits
Calls and Sounds
Males produce a rolling “go-back” call during breeding season. Year-round, ptarmigan make low croaking sounds, and their wings create a rattling noise during flight displays.
Winter Survival Strategy
To escape predators and conserve heat, ptarmigan burrow into snowdrifts and create insulated snow shelters. Some studies show slight nighttime drops in body temperature to save energy.
Diet Changes by Season
In winter, ptarmigan feed almost exclusively on willow buds and catkins. In summer, their diet expands to include berries, flowers, insects, and leaves. Chicks rely heavily on insects in their early weeks.
Breeding Behavior
Males establish territories in April. Females nest on the ground in willow thickets. A typical clutch contains 6–11 eggs. Chicks leave the nest within hours and stay with the family into winter.
Habitat & Conservation in Alaska
Where to Find Willow Ptarmigan in Alaska
Willow Ptarmigan occupy Arctic and sub-Arctic tundra across Alaska. They live in willow thickets near treeline and on mountain slopes from sea level to about 7,000 feet. They are commonly seen in Denali National Park, Gates of the Arctic, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Seasonal Movement
Some populations move to lower elevations in winter, while others remain in the same area year-round. Movement depends on snow depth and access to willow browse.
Conservation Status
The species is listed globally as Least Concern. Alaska’s populations remain strong, though regional changes in willow growth linked to climate shifts can affect local numbers.
Population Cycles
Like many northern game birds, ptarmigan show natural population cycles lasting roughly ten years, with alternating high and low phases.
How to Help Willow Ptarmigan in Alaska
- Protect willow thicket habitats
- Follow state hunting regulations
- Report banded birds to Alaska Department of Fish and Game
- Avoid disturbing nesting areas from May through July
- Support research on Arctic ecosystems
Interesting Facts About Alaska's Willow Ptarmigan
Fact 1 of 11
Alaska is the only U.S. state with a ptarmigan as its official bird
Willow Ptarmigan Songs & Calls
Hear the clear whistles and sharp calls of the Willow Ptarmigan. These field recordings capture their distinctive voice in natural habitat.
Audio licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Sources & References
This article has been researched using authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. All information has been fact-checked and verified against official government records and scientific databases.
Official state wildlife agency information on Willow Ptarmigan biology, hunting seasons, and conservation. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Alaska Statute 44.09.060 designating the Willow Ptarmigan as official state bird. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Comprehensive scientific information on Willow Ptarmigan biology, behavior, and ecology. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Species identification, range maps, and natural history information. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Accuracy Commitment: We strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information. If you notice any errors or outdated information, please contact us.