The majority of Rock Ptarmigan are found in arctic habitats, although small numbers occur in alpine tundra as far south as southern British Columbia. Rock Ptarmigan remain widespread and abundant in Canada but few quantitative data are available on population trends for this species. Information was determined to be insufficient for a reliable assessment of status relative to 1970. Because it lives in areas of high elevation and latitude, the Rock Ptarmigan faces few anthropogenic threats. This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
In its arctic habitats, the species is exposed to comparatively few anthropogenic threats. However, the population may be susceptible to the effects of climate change throughout its range, including unfavourable weather and changes in the alpine treeline (Furrer et al. 2016).
Environment and Climate Change Canada and partners have developed Bird Conservation Region Strategies in each of Canada’s Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs). In these strategies, selected species are identified as priorities for one or more of the following reasons:
Select any of the sub-regions below to view the BCR strategy for additional details.
