Rock ptarmigan
Lagopus muta japonica
Phasianidae
The total length is approximately 37 cm. Designated as a National Special Natural Monument and listed as Endangered (EN) by the Ministry of the Environment. As resident birds, they inhabit the alpine zones of Mt. Hiuchi, the Northern Japanese Alps, Mt. Ontake, and the Southern Japanese Alps. On Mt. Norikura, they can be seen throughout the alpine zone from spring to autumn, but migrate to the Igahara area for wintering. The upper body feathers molt three times a year, changing color seasonally, while the belly and wings molt only once a year and remain white all year round.