White-tailed ptarmigan name "Tetrao (Lagopus) leucurus" by the Arctic explorer John Richardson in 1831. It was later determined that "Lagopus" had sufficient distinguishing features to be regarded as a separate genus and the bird became "Lagopus leucurus". Molecular studies have shown that "Lagopus" is monophyletic, with the rock ptarmigan ("Lagopus muta") and White-tailed ptarmigan being sister species. The position of the willow ptarmigan ("Lagopus lagopus") is less clear cut, it showing some genetic divergence over its wide range. The genus name "Lagopus" is derived from Ancient Greek "lagos" (λαγως), meaning "hare", + "pous" (πους), "foot", in reference to the bird's feathered legs.
Winter Mountain he began the process of recording the new songs at Cube Studios. During the recording process Francis set up his own 'Astral Fox Records' and began planning the self-release of the album. 'I Swear I Flew' was released to critical acclaim in November 2016. Winter Mountain has supported Seal, Ben Ottewell of Gomez, Guy Garvey of Elbow, The Feeling, Ocean Colour Scene, Leann Rhimes, Cara Dillon, Benny Gallagher, Seth Lakeman, Fleet Foxes, Paolo Nutini, Sara and Sean Watkins (formerly of Nickel Creek), Rosanne Cash, Richard Thompson, Grammy award winner Patty Griffin and others. Winter Mountain Winter Mountain is the stage