White-tailed ptarmigan summer plumage. The finely-barred greyish coloration on the back makes it easy to distinguish this species from the much browner willow ptarmigan and rock ptarmigan. Both sexes maintain white tail and wing feathers all the year and males can be identified by their reddish eyecombs (fleshy growths above the eye), also present year-long. In general this bird is silent but it sometimes makes quiet, low-pitched hoots and soft clucking noises. The white-tailed ptarmigan is an alpine species, a permanent resident of the high mountains above or near the timber line. It occupies open country and flies a great deal more
Winter Mountain Winter Mountain Winter Mountain is the stage name of singer-songwriter Joseph 'Joe' Francis (Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Piano, Harmonica), based in Cornwall, UK. The brand of music is predominantly Indie Folk / Rock. He is becoming known for his songwriting abilities, high energy live performances and soulful voice. Initially a duo, Winter Mountain, (Francis and Irish songwriter Marty Smyth) toured the UK and Ireland extensively, becoming recognised for their close vocal harmonies (Similar in style to that of Simon and Garfunkel) and distinctive songwriting. They attracted the attention of many major record companies before signing to indie label 'Charcoal Records' in