Ptarmigan Hunting: a Complete Field Guide to the Birds of the North

Ptarmigan Hunting: A Complete Field Guide to the Birds of the Northby Reed AltonIn the endless silence of the northern tundra, the ptarmigan thrives: adaptable, elusive, and perfectly attuned to its harsh environment. Ptarmigan Hunting: A Complete Field Guide to the Birds of the North is the definitive handbook for understanding and pursuing this remarkable game bird across Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and the Rocky Mountains.Drawing on both field experience and deep respect for the wild, Reed Alton teaches hunters how to scout, stalk, and harvest ptarmigan ethically and effectively. Inside, you’ll learn how to identify each species—rock, willow, and white-tailed ptarmigan—by their behavior, habitat, and seasonal plumage. You’ll master practical techniques for walking ridges, navigating snowfields, choosing the right gear, and working with dogs trained for northern conditions.From early autumn to midwinter, this guide covers:Scouting, stalking, and flushing strategies in open countryProper clothing and gear for Arctic and alpine terrainFirearms, optics, and navigation tools for rugged environmentsDog selection and training for upland and snow huntingReading tracks, droppings, and feeding signsSeasonal movements and regional regulationsDozens of traditional and modern ptarmigan recipesBlending precise instruction with sacred respect for the land, Ptarmigan Hunting is more than a how-to manual: it’s a journey through one of the most beautiful and challenging hunting experiences on earth. Whether you are a seasoned outdoorsman or a curious newcomer to the North, this field guide will prepare you for the pursuit and remind you why we go afield in the first place.Step into the silence. Learn the craft. Discover the spirit of the northern Ptarmigan hunt.