Wildlife

UK Snow Bunting and Ptarmigan Mountain Welfare

Winter welfare of snow buntings and ptarmigan in UK mountain and coastal habitats.

Key Facts

Snow buntings breed on high Scottish mountains and winter on coastal beaches
Ptarmigan are resident on Scottish mountain tops year-round
Both species have specialised adaptations for cold environments
Ptarmigan turn white in winter for camouflage against snow
Climate change is reducing snowpack affecting ptarmigan welfare and habitat suitability

Welfare Considerations

Individual ptarmigan face welfare risks from reduced snowpack due to climate change, with appropriate camouflage cover lost and increased predator visibility during winter.

What You Can Do

Support Cairngorms National Park and Highland wildlife conservation
Avoid disturbing mountain habitats during winter when wildlife is most stressed
Advocate for climate action as a critical long-term animal welfare strategy