This species is closely related to rabbits and hares, though it lacks their long legs and tails. Found in countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and western China, the Turkestan red pika thrives in high-altitude regions where vegetation is sparse and temperatures fluctuate dramatically. With its reddish-brown fur and quick, squeaky calls, it’s one of the most charming yet underappreciated residents of Asia’s mountain wilderness.

True to its name, its coat has a distinct warm reddish or rusty-brown hue, especially in summer, helping it blend into the reddish rocks and dry soil of its native range. In winter, the fur grows denser and often turns grayer or duller, offering better insulation and camouflage against the snow. Its fur is soft and thick, perfectly adapted for cold mountain climates.

Like other pikas, it has rounded ears, short limbs, and no visible tail, giving it a cuddly, almost plush appearance. The ears are smaller and more rounded than those of the large-eared pika, minimizing heat loss. Its large eyes provide keen vision, essential for spotting predators across the open terrain, while its sharp claws and agile body allow it to scramble effortlessly among rocks and cliffs.

The Turkestan red pika prefers areas with plenty of boulder piles, rock crevices, and sparse grasses, which provide both shelter and a steady food supply. Unlike burrowing animals such as rabbits, pikas do not dig deep tunnels; instead, they live in natural rock cavities that protect them from predators and extreme weather. These habitats also serve as perfect storage sites for one of their most fascinating behaviors—haypiling. During the short summer season, Turkestan red pikas spend countless hours collecting grasses, herbs, and other vegetation, drying them in the sun, and storing them in small heaps beneath rocks.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

China

2016

Xinjiang

Kazakhstan

2016

Kyrgyzstan

2016

Tajikistan

2016

Uzbekistan

2016