Pika
\n| Pika |
|---|
\n |
\n |
|---|
\n| \n\n |
| Genera |
|---|
\nOchotona
Prolanus\n |
\nThe name
Pika is used for any member of the
Ochotonidae, a
family within the
order of
lagomorphss, which also includes the
Leporidae (
rabbits and hares). Either one or two genera are recognised within the family, which includes about 26 species. Typical
species include:\n*
Ochotona collaris (Collared Pika)\n*
Ochotona princeps (American Pika)\n*
Ochotona roylei (Royle's Pika)
Pikas are also called
rock rabbits.
Pikas are native to cold climates, mostly in
Asia,
North America and parts of eastern
Europe. It is also known as the "whistling hare" due to its high-pitched warning cry when diving into its burrow.
Pikas show their peak activity before the winter season. Because they cannot
hibernate, they collect fresh grass for storage; this becomes hay, providing warm bedding and food. It is not uncommon for pikas to steal hay from other dens; the resulting disputes are usually exploited by neighboring
predators like
ferrets and large birds.
