Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Lagomorpha
- Family
- Ochotonidae
- Genus
- Ochotona
Habitat
Forrest's pika inhabits high-altitude alpine meadows and rocky slopes in the eastern Himalayas, primarily in China at elevations between 3,000 and 5,000 meters. It prefers areas with abundant vegetation and rock piles for shelter, avoiding dense forests and lower elevations.
Diet
Forrest's pika primarily feeds on grasses, herbs, and other alpine plants, which it gathers during the day. It exhibits haymaking behavior, collecting and drying vegetation to store for winter food supplies. Feeding occurs mainly in the early morning and late afternoon when temperatures are milder.
Behavior
Forrest's pika is diurnal and highly territorial, often emitting high-pitched calls to warn of predators or defend its area. It lives in small family groups but maintains individual territories within rocky habitats, and is known for its haymaking behavior where it stockpiles food for winter. These pikas are agile climbers and spend much of their time foraging or sunbathing on rocks.
Conservation Status
Forrest's pika is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss from climate change and overgrazing. Population trends are declining, with major threats including warming temperatures that reduce suitable alpine habitats.