Seasonal Changes in the Body Composition of the Norwegian Rock Ptarmigan Lagopus mutus

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Abstract
The seasonal changes in body composition of rock ptarmigan from northern Norway were examined. Body composition remained essentially stable throughout the year, but apparent changes related to the digestive system took place. The caeca increased in weight from 22 g in Sept. to 48 g in March. The amount of dissectible body fat was negligible throughout the year. Unlike the Svalbard Ptarmigan, the Norwegian Rock Ptarmigan is not adapted to withstand prolonged periods of starvation at any time of the year.