Milestones
Biodiversity Profile: American Pika
This small chinchilla-like relative of the rabbit lives on the rocky slopes near the tops of the Rocky Mountains. Preferring the cool temperatures, rocky dens and alpine vegetation of high elevations, the American pika is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change: as temperatures rise, he is forced to move farther up the mountain—but there is only so much “up” he can go. (Photo: © Larry Master, www.MasterImages.org)
- Scientific name
- Ochotona princeps
- Status
- Globally secure, but vulnerable to imperiled in southern extent of range
- Range
- Central British Columbia and southern Alberta south to east-central California, Nevada, southern Utah, and northern New Mexico, and east to Wyoming and Colorado; ranges from sea level to 3000 meters (9,800 feet) in north, uncommon below 2500 meters (8,200 feet) at southern range limit.
- Habitat
- Restricted to rocky talus slopes, primarily the talus-meadow interface, often above the treeline up to the limit of vegetation.
- Phenology
- Active throughout the year. Relatively inactive on warm days; at lower elevations may be inactive at midday in hot weather.
- Climate Change Vulnerability
- Highly vulnerable, based on natural barriers, and physical habitat and temperature requirements.
Get more data on the American Pika at NatureServe Explorer.
