How are the ptarmigans feet adapted for living in its habitat?

Ptarmigan have feathers on their legs and feet, which lend added warmth and the ability to move smoothly over the snow, as if they were walking on snowshoes. This unique feature is even referred to in the birds' genus name "Lagopus." Broken down, the term is comprised of the Greek Word lagos, for "hare," and "pus," for foot: hare-foot.