American Pika

Vena

Professor Nico

AREZ3400

4/26/22

American Pika

            Despite its almost hamster-like appearance, the American pika is a lagomorph (American Pika, n.d.) that largely resides in the western region of North America. These creatures are strange due to their persistence to harsh climates, despite their inability to perform typical survival tactics, such as hibernate, regulate body temperature, and low fertility (Smith & Weston, 1990, as cited in Millar & Hickman, 2021) These creatures are grey-ish brown, with rounded ears, and are usually about 7-8 inches long, and have very thick fur that they shed to lighten during the summer (American Pika, n.d.). These creatures lack a visible tail. Pikas make calls to one another that are described as sounding like a high-pitched lamb’s bleat (American Pika, n.d.).

Range and Habitat

            Pikas enjoy cooler temperatures at higher altitudes in the Western United States and Canada, and are typically seen west of the Rocky Mountains and other mountainous regions (American Pika, n.d.). These lagomorphs often hide between rocks, slopes, and taluses to take advantage of the shade and breezes that flow through them (Millar & Hickman, 2021). These rocks create a sort of air conditioning that keeps the animal cool enough to survive. Occasionally, pikas can be found at lower altitudes in caves and other deep cervices that can offer cooler temperatures (American Pika, n.d.). They are primarily considered to be diurnal, though they have also been captured as active at night as well 9 Millar & Hickman, 2021). The American pika cannot be found outside of these areas due to the temperature there being too hot for them to survive.

Behaviour and Diet

            Pikas survive off the plants that grow in their mountainous habitats, and therefore eat a variety of wildflowers, grass, and weeds (American Pika, n.d.). Even though they do not hibernate, they hoard food for the extra cold winter months by laying extra food out to dry in the sun (American Pika, n.d.). This sun-drying process prevents their food from growing mold or otherwise rotting. Pikas live in colonies and share a den and are very territorial. When faced with danger, they will let out a warning call that will alert the rest of the colony to seek safety (American Pika, n.d.). Finally, they will also warn other pikas who are not members of the colony to stay away from their territory (American Pika, n.d.).

Conservation Status and Threats

            Due to their inability to regulate body temperature, climate change has made it harder for the pikas to survive. Higher temperatures at the higher altitudes mean that it’s gotten too hot for the pikas and leaves them without anywhere to go due to them already living at the highest altitude possible; this issue is compounded by new predators appearing in their habitats due to the predator’s own home being destroyed (American Pika, n.d.). Dwindling populations have been noted for this species, however, they are not actually listed under the Endangered Species Act and are even listed as a species of “least concern” despite the decline. The pika appears to be somewhat controversial, as some scientists believe that these creatures do not need conservation, while others, including the National Wildlife Federation, believe they need to be added to the endangered species list. Even without human intervention, there may be hope for the American Pika, as some scientists believe the animal will be able to evolve to adapt to the higher temperatures (Smith & Millar, 2018). Though the question is, should the U.S. wait until these species experience critically low populations before intervening?

Works Cited

American pika. National Wildlife Federation. (n.d.). https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/American-Pika

Millar, C. I., & Hickman, K. T. (2021). Camera traps provide insights into American pika site occupancy, behavior, thermal relations, and associated wildlife diversity. Western North American Naturalist, 81(2), 141–170. https://doi-org.proxy.seattleu.edu/10.3398/064.081.0201

Smith, A. T., & Millar, C. I. (2018). American Pika (Ochotona princeps) Population Survival in Winters with Low or No Snowpack. Western North American Naturalist,78(2), 126.