Pika

About

How pika lives

Pikas are small mountain relatives of rabbits that gather plant hay piles for winter food. Pikas use sharp calls to warn neighbors about predators in rocky slopes. Mountain species are adapted to cooler temperatures, rough terrain, and thinner air.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink. Protecting pika also depends on keeping mountains, grassland habitats healthy and connected.

Vulnerable species can decline quickly when habitat loss, climate pressure, or human conflict intensifies.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Pikas use sharp calls to warn neighbors about predators in rocky slopes.
• Most mammals regulate body temperature internally, which helps them stay active across different climates.
• Mountain species are adapted to cooler temperatures, rough terrain, and thinner air.
• Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink.