About Ochotona pallasi (Gray, 1867)
Size and Weight
Pallas's pika (Ochotona pallasi) weighs between 175 and 200 grams (6.2 and 7.1 oz) and grows up to 25 centimetres (9.8 in) long.
Body Morphology
It has a round body, very short limbs, and small rounded ears.
Seasonal Fur Variation
Its fur (pelage) changes color with the season: it is lighter in summer and much darker in winter.
Subspecies Classification
There are four recognized subspecies of Ochotona pallasi, which are geographically separated from one another.
Distribution of Widespread Subspecies
The nominate subspecies O. p. pallasi is largely distributed in Kazakhstan, while the large subspecies group O. p. pricei is distributed across Mongolia and adjacent border territories. The combined range of these two groups extends from the Betpak Dala Desert in Kazakhstan to the Helan Shan Range.
Distribution of Restricted Subspecies
The remaining two subspecies are little-studied, with restricted ranges limited to rocky habitats: O. p. argentata is found mostly at the Helan Shan Range, and O. p. sunidica occurs mostly near the Chinese-Mongolian border.
Mating System
Pallas's pikas form monogamous pairs.
Reproduction Traits
Reproduction only takes place in summer, with an average litter size of 5 and an average of 2.7 litters per year.
Juvenile Development
Young Pallas's pikas are weaned at 19 days old and reach sexual maturity at 4 weeks old.
