American Pika
The American Pika is a small, rabbit-like mammal native to the mountains of western North America. It is a member of the same family as rabbits and hares.
Pikas are known for their high-pitched, squeaky calls, which they use to communicate with each other.
They do not hibernate during the winter, so they must spend the warmer months collecting and storing food. They create large piles of hay, which they dry in the sun before storing them in their burrows. These "haystacks" are a vital food source during the long, cold winter months. Because they are so well-adapted to cold climates, they are particularly vulnerable to climate change.
American Pika
Classification
Mammalia > Lagomorpha > Ochotonidae > Ochotona > O. princeps
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
6 - 8 inches
(15 - 20 cm)
Average Weight
4 - 6 oz
(113 - 170 g)
Average Life Span
5 - 6 years
Gestation Period
30 days
Did You Know?
The American Pika is a small, rabbit-like mammal native to the mountains of western North America.
They are known for their distinctive "haypiles" - collections of dried plants they gather and store for winter food.
American Pikas do not hibernate; they rely on their stored food and insulated burrows to survive cold winters.
They are highly adapted to cold climates and are sensitive to rising temperatures, making them an indicator species for climate change.
American Pikas are very vocal, using a variety of barks and calls to communicate with each other.
They live in rocky areas, often scree slopes, where they can find crevices for shelter.
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