ClimateAugust 25, 2026
pikas
PY-kuhz
Definition
Small, high-altitude mammals belonging to the rabbit family, characterized by their round bodies, short ears, and reliance on cooler alpine environments.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Tungusic 'piika,' a name used by indigenous peoples in Siberia for these animals. It entered English in the 19th century via scientific exploration and biological classification.
In the news
The article mentions pikas as a case study for climate sensitivity, noting that these animals often struggle to survive when regional temperatures exceed their limited thermal tolerance.
Ancient Genes May Help Wildlife Adapt to Survive the Climate Crisis — and a Tiny Rodent May Reveal Why
Read the full article ↗Discover Magazine