Pikaajalistel

Pikaajalistel, also known as the European Pika, is a small mammal belonging to the family Sciuridae, which also includes squirrels. Native to the mountainous regions of Europe, particularly in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians, Pikaajalistel is well-adapted to its cold and rocky environment. It is characterized by its large ears, which help dissipate heat and maintain body temperature, and its long, bushy tail, which aids in balance and insulation. The species is diurnal and primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, and berries.

Pikaajalistel has a distinctive life cycle, with a short breeding season followed by a long period of hibernation. Females give birth to a single litter of 2-4 young, which are born in late spring or early summer. The young are altricial, meaning they are born blind and helpless, and rely on their mother for warmth and food. The hibernation period, which can last up to 7 months, is triggered by the onset of winter and is characterized by a significant reduction in metabolic rate and body temperature.

The European Pika is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but it faces several threats, including habitat loss due to human activities such as agriculture and urbanization, and climate change, which can alter the availability of food and water. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting and restoring suitable habitats, as well as monitoring population trends to ensure the species' long-term survival.