Wildlifeof China
Ili Pika
Pangolins, Treeshrews, Shrews & GymnuresOchotona iliensis
Basic stats
Diet
Grasses and herbs; generalized herbivore
Habitat
High-elevation talus slopes and rocky cliffs at approximately 2,800–4,100m
Range
Tian Shan mountains, Xinjiang, northwest China
Size
20.3–20.4cm
Weight
Up to 250g
The Ili pika, sometimes called the magic rabbit, is a comparatively large pika endemic to northwest China. It measures 20.3–20.4cm and can weigh up to 250g. Its brightly coloured coat bears conspicuous rusty-red patches on the forehead, crown and sides of the neck, giving it a recognisable appearance among the small lagomorphs of the Tian Shan. (Wikipedia, general species account)
The species inhabits high-elevation talus slopes, rock walls and cliff faces at roughly 2,800–4,100m in Xinjiang's Tian Shan mountains. Gaps and holes among the rocks provide dens. It is a generalized herbivore that eats grasses and herbs, and it constructs hay piles. Records following its discovery came from several localities along the northern spur of the Tian Shan. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Quick answers
- What does the Ili Pika eat?
- Grasses and herbs; generalized herbivore
- What habitat does the Ili Pika live in?
- High-elevation talus slopes and rocky cliffs at approximately 2,800–4,100m
- Where is the Ili Pika found?
- Tian Shan mountains, Xinjiang, northwest China
- How big is the Ili Pika?
- 20.3–20.4cm
- How much does the Ili Pika weigh?
- Up to 250g