The 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:
Ochotona collaris (Collared Pika)
Ochotona princeps (American Pika)
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.
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