Royle’s Pika Ochotona roylii

The Royle’s Pika, also known as the Himalayan Pika, is a small mammal belonging to the Ochotonidae family. It is found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Tibet, typically inhabiting rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and grasslands at elevations ranging from 2,400 to 4,800 meters.

This tiny herbivore resembles a small rabbit but lacks a visible tail. It has soft, dense fur that is brownish-gray, aiding in camouflage against its rocky surroundings. Royle’s Pika has large, rounded ears and short limbs, adaptations for its cold, mountainous habitat. The species is active during the day (diurnal) and is known for its characteristic behavior of collecting and drying vegetation to store in hay piles for winter, a survival strategy to endure the harsh conditions of its environment. Its diet consists of grasses, herbs, and other vegetation.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Schedule I

CITES: Not Defined