thegreenwolf:

astronomy-to-zoology:

American Pika (Ochotona princeps)

…is not a rodent but a species of lagomorph found throughout the mountains of Western North America. Like its rabbit/hare relatives the American Pika is a strict herbivore often found feeding on grasses, thistles and vegetation. Like all rock dwelling pikas the American Pika lacks the large large back legs that rabbits have and has more spaced out toes for gripping rocks. Despite their listing as least concern, the American Pika is in decline as their mountainous habitat is under direct attack from climate change. Pikas are extremely sensitive to head and will die fairly quickly when exposed to temperatures higher than 75°F. The Pikas in Peril Project is currently working on saving the American and other Pika species in the United States.

Phylogeny

Animalia-Chordata-Mammalia-Lagomorpha-Ochotonidae-Ochotona-princeps

Image Source(s)

Also, have a video of pikas masking their absolutely adorable little warning squeaks, with bonus! David Attenborough.