Aug 03, 2025
Salad for Dinner - Pika Style
Table of contents
Why I Love the Alpine-Dwelling Pika
One of my favorite animals that calls the high country above tree line home is the Pika. These tiny, round-bodied creatures are bursting with personality—always busy, always alert, and endlessly entertaining to watch. With their thick fur, round ears, and expressive dark eyes, they look like something straight out of a children’s storybook. Just a handful of fluff and energy darting between the rocks. There's something instantly endearing about them. Whether they're squeaking from a hidden perch or scampering across the talus with a mouthful of greens, these fuzzy little mountain dwellers are just downright adorable.
Small but Mighty: A Rabbit Cousin in the Rocks
They are often mistaken as rodents but actually hail from the same family as a common household pet, the rabbit. If you look closely you will pick up on the resemblance in the body shape, although the ears are short and round compared to the rabbits and they have no visible tail.
Winter Prep: How Pikas Survive the Alpine Cold
Like their cousins, the Pika is an herbivore which means they love their veggies. Because they live among the talus fields of the Alpine region year round their survival depends upon their ability to gather large amounts of food to dry and stash near their dens for the long harsh winters. While their coloration helps them blend in with the background, one can often find them when they run across the rocks with a mouth full of grass, weeds or even flowers. The movement will draw your eyes , and if you listen carefully you will hear their high pitched squeaks which lets you know they are present.
Cute—But Not to Be Underestimated
See why they are so adorable? While we humans find this cute, among Pikas their calls are used to define and protect their territory or alert others of danger. Life is harsh above tree line therefore the need to protect themselves and the resources necessary to survive.
Don’t be fooled by their cuddly appearance—wild animals, no matter how small or cute, will defend themselves if they feel threatened. I actually had a close encounter with a pika once while standing on a boulder in a talus field near a high-country lake. As I paused to take photos, one bold little pika darted up and gently nibbled on the cuff of my pants, almost like it was giving me a taste test.
I didn’t lure it with food or scent; I was simply in its space, and curiosity got the better of it. After that brief encounter, I quietly moved on so as not to disturb it any further. Respecting wildlife and giving them space is always the best way to go.
Capturing the Moment: “Salad for Dinner”
Many Pika pictures have been captured on my journeys in to the alpine country, but my limited edition print “Salad for Dinner” is one of my favorites because it captures the essence of this wild animal in spades. That sparkle in the eyes, the perpetual movement as it gathers food for the winter and the talus which it calls home.
Do you have a favorite Alpine animal? If so, leave a comment.
Lea Frye - Wildlife Photographer
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