Genus Ochotona Higher classification Pika | Phylum Chordata Family Ochotonidae Scientific name Ochotona roylei Rank Species | |
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Royle s pika 2
Royle's pika (Ochotona roylei) is a species of mammal in the pika family (Ochotonidae). It is found in China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
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Royle s pika 1
Description
The most common pika in Himalayas with a HBT length of 17-22 centimeter. Royle's pika has slightly arched head with rufous-grey body with chestnut-colored head and sparse hair in front of its ears.
Distribution and habitat
This is the most common pika of Himalayas and should not be confused with large-eared pika. These species are mostly seen in the open rocky mountain edges or slopes or onto the broken ground covered with conifer trees such as pine, deodar and rhododendron forests. The species has also been found near the human habitation. It does not make its own nest, rather it takes of narrow creeks and existing borrow system as its nest with hay piles and pine leaves.
Conservation status
Though their conservation status according to IUCN red list is Least Concerned, habitat loss and human habitation in hilly areas are the indirect cause of conservation threats towards them.