- The Northern pika (Ochotona hyperborea) is a small lagomorph found across northern Asia, ranging from the Ural Mountains through Siberia, northern Mongolia, northeastern China, and extending to Hokkaido, Japan. This species demonstrates remarkable adaptability to cold climates and high-altitude environments.
- Physically, the Northern pika is a small, compact animal measuring about 15-20 centimeters in length and weighing between 120-200 grams. It has a rounded body with short limbs, small rounded ears, and no visible tail. Its fur is typically brownish-gray in summer, changing to a lighter, thicker coat in winter. This seasonal molt helps the animal survive in its harsh environment. The species shows slight sexual dimorphism, with females generally being slightly larger than males.
- These pikas are diurnal animals, being most active during dawn and dusk. They are well-adapted to life in rocky environments, particularly talus slopes and rocky outcrops in mountainous regions. Their habitat typically includes areas with good cover from predators and proximity to vegetation for foraging. They can be found from sea level in parts of their range up to elevations of 2,500 meters or more.
- A distinctive behavior of the Northern pika is its hay-making activity. During summer and autumn, they collect and dry vegetation to create haypiles for winter consumption. These haypiles are stored in their dens or among rocks and serve as crucial food sources during the harsh winter months when fresh vegetation is scarce. They feed on a variety of plants including grasses, herbs, twigs, and leaves.
- The reproductive pattern of O. hyperborea varies depending on the location and altitude. In most areas, they can produce 2-3 litters per year, with each litter containing 2-6 young. The breeding season typically begins after snow melt and continues through the summer months. Young pikas reach sexual maturity relatively quickly, sometimes able to breed in their first year of life.
- Northern pikas are territorial animals, with both males and females defending their territories through vocalizations and scent marking. They communicate using various calls, including alarm calls to warn others of predators. These vocalizations are particularly important given their social nature and the need to coordinate activities within their colonies.
- The species faces various threats including climate change, which affects their habitat and food availability. Being adapted to cold climates, they are particularly sensitive to temperature increases. However, their wide distribution and ability to adapt to different elevations have helped maintain relatively stable populations in most areas.
- Despite these challenges, the Northern pika plays an important ecological role in its habitat. Through their hay-making activities, they influence plant community composition and contribute to nutrient cycling in their ecosystems. They also serve as prey for various predators including weasels, foxes, and birds of prey, making them an important component of their ecological communities.
