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Survival strategy of the pika in the Sayan Mountains

Survival strategy of the pika in the Sayan Mountains

Learn about the pikas in the Sayan Mountains.
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Transcript

The Sayan mountain range between Russia and Mongolia - a remote and untouched part of the world. Towering granite peaks over 3,000 meters high - the steep slopes are home to a small mammal, the pika.

The hamster-like rodents are busy collecting flowers and grasses. Up at these heights, the summers are short, and the pikas must make the most of the quick burst of plant growth. Once they've eaten their fill, the pikas will take any surplus below ground and store it for winter. Pikas don’t hibernate and they will survive the long cold months by feeding on the stores they set up now. After all the hard work, it’s time for a little rest in the warm sunshine.