What is himalayan pika?

The Himalayan pika, also known as the black-lipped pika or mountain hare, is a small mammal that belongs to the family Ochotonidae. It is found in the Himalayas, at elevations of 3,000 to 5,000 meters above sea level.

Himalayan pikas are small, round-bodied, and have short legs. They have grey-brown fur on their back and sides with a white underbelly. They also have distinctive black lips and ears. They are solitary animals and are active during the day.

Himalayan pikas feed on herbs, grasses, and small shrubs. They are important prey for predators such as snow leopards, foxes, and birds of prey.

Himalayan pikas are adapted to the extreme cold temperatures of the high Himalayas. They have a thick coat of fur that keeps them warm. They also store food in small caches during the summer months to eat during the winter when food is scarce.

Despite their importance to the ecosystem, Himalayan pikas are threatened by climate change, habitat loss, and over-harvesting. Conservation efforts are needed to protect Himalayan pikas and their habitat.