Willow Ptarmigan song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Willow Ptarmigan, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The male's breeding song is a distinctive, raucous, cackling 'go-back, go-back, go-back-go-go-go' or 'ko-ko-ko-ko-ko-kwa-kwa-kwa', often given during display flights or from a prominent perch. It can be quite loud and carries well across the tundra.

Calls

Various calls include a sharp 'kuk-kuk-kuk' alarm call when flushed, a soft 'cluck' contact call within flocks, and a low 'gobble' or 'growl' during aggressive interactions. Females have a softer 'clucking' call to communicate with chicks.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season (spring and early summer), particularly at dawn and dusk. Alarm calls can be heard year-round when disturbed.

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