Daurian Pika
Ochotona dauurica
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Lagomorpha · Ochotonidae
About
The Daurian pika is a small relative of rabbits and hares in the order Lagomorpha. It is well known for its "barking" alarm call, and for its peculiar habit of making hay to help survive the winter. There are 4 recognized subspecies, Ochotona dauurica annectens, O.d. bedfordi, O.d. dauurica, and O.d. mursavi. Daurian pikas, like other lagomorphs, are characterized by a secondary set of incisor teeth. They are sexually monomorphic, with thick reddish coats. Pikas have no external tail, and their ears are large and rounded. The auditory bullae, a feature of the skull of daurian pikas are small in comparison to many other pikas. This is thought to be related to their fairly low altitude habitat preference. They are considered keystone species within their habitat.
Fun Fact
They are capable of producing several litters per year, and may have up to 11 offspring in a single litter.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Eat and herbaceous vegetation to store for winter.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance