Global warming threatens the American pika: will a beloved tourist animal disappear?.

According to ТСН: In the Rocky Mountains lives a tiny mountain animal that has become a favorite among tourists – the American pika. It is known for its piercing 'screams' that signal danger. However, researchers are concerned: this characteristic cry may disappear due to a sharp decline in young individuals.

Decrease in the number of young individuals

A new study has shown that the number of young American pikas in the Rocky Mountains has sharply decreased. Ecologist Chris Ray from the University of Colorado compared data from the 1980s with modern surveys and found that the proportion of young has halved. This may indicate either reduced fertility or insufficient migration of young individuals that are supposed to replace the older generation.

Adaptation to cold

American pikas are adapted to cold. They cannot regulate their temperature through sweating or rapid breathing, so the only way to avoid overheating is to hide among cold rocky debris.

Many young pikas, after birth, are forced to leave their family's territory and find their own plot of land to live in, which requires them to move through warmer parts of the mountains. At such times, they face dangerous increases in temperature.

'My own hypothesis is that this probably does not kill them immediately, but simply causes them stress,' explains Ray.

Although the population still remains relatively numerous, the scientist warns that without sufficient natural replenishment, local groups of animals may disappear.

Ecological role of the pika

The disappearance of the American pika will be a serious loss for the ecosystem. It is an important winter food source for raptors, foxes, weasels, and coyotes. Additionally, the pika serves as an indicator of the status of cold mountainous environments. Its absence may indicate the loss of snow cover and permafrost, which are very important for the region's water resources.

The American pika is a unique inhabitant of the mountains. It collects flowers and grasses, hiding them under rocks for the winter.

'They are too curious. If they disappear, our experience will diminish,' the scientist added.

The situation with American pikas is an important signal for ecologists. Understanding their role in nature creates the need to take measures to protect this tiny but vital animal. After all, preserving its population may be key to the stability of entire ecosystems in the mountains.