3. They Live High in the Mountains
Deeply entwined with their evolutionary background and current ecological niche, the affinity for high-altitude dwelling of the American pika defines the species. With a remarkable history spanning thousands of years and across the North American continent, these tenacious species are Their trip started in Asia, where their forebears came from, then across the Bering land bridge to Alaska. It was difficult. Beginning thousands of years ago, this movement signalled the arrival of the pika in North America.
Pikas were first more extensively scattered over North America when they arrived. But as millennia-spanning climate patterns changed, the species progressively withdrew to higher altitudes in search of the cooler temperatures most fit for its physiological requirements. One excellent illustration of how species adjust their ranges in response to long-term environmental changes is this retreat to higher ground. Mostly found in mountainous western North America today, the American pika lives in New Mexico, California, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, and Western Canada.
The pika’s present habitat choices are rather specialised and mirror its adaption to alpine, frigid conditions. Particularly in the more southern sections of their habitat, they are rare below elevations of 8,200 feet. This elevation barrier reflects the point at which the temperature-sensitive physiology of the pika finds the climate to be adequately chilly. It is not arbitrary. Actually, pikas are quite suited to cold environments; they can perish just a few hours above 77°F (25°C).
Rocky slopes, talus fields, and boulder-strewn meadows define the high-altitude environments pikas choose. These habitats offer the ideal mix of cover from the elements and food supplies pikas need to flourish. While the nearby alpine meadows provide a range of vegetation for feeding, the cracks between rocks give protection from predators and severe weather. This habitat also lets pikas participate in their unique activity of hay-pile construction, in which they gather and save plants for winter use.
One has difficulties living at such great heights. Long, frigid winters and short, cool summers define the hostile surroundings. Food can be limited, thus the thin air increases the difficulty of physical exercise. Still, pikas have developed a suite of adaptations to fit these circumstances. Their small, compact bodies help to save heat; their thick fur offers protection against the cold. Another important adaptation to their high-altitude habitat is their capacity to stay active all through the winter instead of hibernation.
Given present global warming tendencies, the pika’s retreat to higher altitudes in reaction to historical climate change causes worry. Pikas must go further higher up the slopes to find appropriate habitat as temperatures climb. Their height is limited, though, and in certain places they already live at the greatest elevations. Like the polar bear in Arctic areas, this scenario has made the pika regarded as a climate change indicator animal.