American Pika

The American pika (Ochotona princeps) is a small, herbivorous mammal of the family Ochotonidae, closely related to rabbits and hares (order Lagomorpha). It is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, typically inhabiting rocky slopes and talus fields at or above the tree line higher elevation. Unlike most mammals of similar size, the American pika is diurnal, being active primarily during the day. It employs two distinct foraging strategies: directly consuming vegetation or gathering and storing plant materials in "haypiles" to sustain itself through the winter months, a behavior known as haying.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Is it venomous or poisonous?

We have no record of American Pika being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.

Easily confused with

• Ochotona alpina
• Ochotona hyperborea
• Ochotona collaris
• Ochotona rutila
• Ochotona roylii

Classification

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Lagomorpha

Family

Ochotonidae

Genus

Ochotona

Species

Ochotona princeps

More species