Conservation biologists at Colorado Parks and Wildlife are concerned about the future of the southern white-tailed ptarmigan, a species of bird native to the Rocky Mountains.

Ptarmigans are considered sensitive wildlife of greatest conservation need. The small birds, weighing less than 1 pound, live year-round at 9,500 feet and above.

A 2018 CPW study found that populations of ptarmigan are holding steady throughout the mountains of Colorado, with little change since they were first studied in the 1960s.

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“We have widespread distribution of ptarmigan across the state in suitable habitat,” said biologist Amy Seglund, who coordinated the study. “I was surprised how many birds we found at many of the sites. They’re a very resilient species.”

However, Seglund fears for the species in the long term.

At the extreme elevation, very few ptarmigan chicks survive. Less than one chick per nest (averaging 5.46 eggs) will make it, as they’re frequently killed by predators and harsh weather.

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In addition, human interference is increasing the dangers the birds face.

Ptarmigans can only tolerate little human activity, having already disappeared from the Ice Lakes area near Silverton as more hikers began passing through.

Rising temperatures in the ptarmigans’ habitat are also disrupting the species’ seasonal behaviors.

Ptarmigans turn white in the winter to hide beneath the snow and turn brown in the summer, keeping cool with snow baths.

However, soaring summer temperatures in the last few years have made it difficult for the bird to handle the heat.

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“Agencies must work together to limit disturbances in the alpine and mitigate those that currently exist,” Seglund said.

“Environments are changing with many unknown consequences on the horizon, thus it is imperative for CPW to continue to monitor and work with agencies to manage this iconic alpine species for future generations to enjoy.”

Seglund plans to conduct survey work over the next few summers to monitor the ptarmigan population.