Habitat
This species primarily inhabits alpine meadows and rocky slopes on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau in western China. It prefers high-elevation areas above 3000 meters with abundant vegetation and rock crevices for burrows.
Diet
The Xunhuaensis pika feeds mainly on grasses, herbs, and other alpine plants. It forages during the day and collects vegetation to store in haypiles for winter survival. Feeding activity peaks in the early morning and late afternoon.
Behavior
Xunhuaensis pikas are diurnal and live in loose colonies with overlapping territories. They are highly territorial, using vocal calls and scent marking to defend areas and communicate. They exhibit caching behavior, gathering and storing food in haypiles to prepare for harsh winters.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of the Xunhuaensis pika is Vulnerable, with population trends declining due to habitat loss from overgrazing and climate change. Major threats include fragmentation of alpine meadows and predation pressure.