Rock Ptarmigan (Phasianidae)
Lagopus muta
Listed as Endangered (EN) on Japan’s Ministry of the Environment Red List and designated as a Special National Treasure. The total population in Japan is estimated to be around 2,000 individuals, with 100-200 of them inhabiting Mt. Norikura. The plumage on its upper body molts three times a year, changing color with the seasons, but the feathers on its wings and belly molt less frequently and remain white year-round.