The rock ptarmigan is one of the most familiar birds in Iceland and is
widely distributed across the country. It is well adapted to cold
conditions and changes its plumage with the seasons, becoming white in
winter and brown in summer. The ptarmigan inhabits heaths, moorlands, and
highland areas.
Its diet mainly consists of plants, buds, and berries. The rock ptarmigan
has long been important in Icelandic culture and has traditionally been
hunted for food. It is also the primary prey of the gyrfalcon.