Spatial and temporal dynamics of the Alpine Rock Ptarmigan in Switzerland

The Alpine Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta helvetica) is an Arctic grouse species which occurs above the tree line in the Alps. A significant decline of the population count has been observed over the last decades in Switzerland. Although several studies regarding this decline have been conducted in different regions of the Alps, it is still not completely clear what factors are causing this decrease in population count. Climate change however seems to lead to a reduction of suitable habitat.

Enlarged view: ptarmgian_winter — The Alpine Rock Ptarmigan (*Lagopus muta helvetiva*) is well adapted to alpine climate.

Using different datasets of Ptarmigan recordings, spatial models will be built to investigate which environmental factors could have influenced the observed changes in their distribution, population count and reproductive success. The analysis includes climate data, changes in vegetation and alpine tourism as predictors. The insights of this project will hopefully lead to a better understanding of the temporal and spatial dynamics of the Rock Ptarmigan and help for future conservation measurements.

Enlarged view: ptarmigan_autumn — Will climate change lead to a mismatch between plumage colour of Ptarmigan and the environment in autumn?

_{This project is a collaboration between the external page Swiss Ornithological Institute (Vogelwarte) and ETH Zürich.}

Publications and Talks

Download Poster: Biology 18 Neuchâtel (PDF, 1.8 MB)