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Hike to protect the pika! Become a Pika Patroller.

A partnership between Walking Mountains, the Denver Zoo, and Rocky Mountain Wild. More info…

The Colorado Pika Project is a research project implemented by community scientists across Colorado. Through long-term monitoring of pika populations, we are not only providing useful data to researchers and land managers, but we are doing so in a way that educates and engages Coloradans in conservation and the local impacts of climate change.

Questions? Call (970) 827-9725 ext. 144 or email hike@walkingmountains.org

What is a pika?
A pika is a small mammal that belongs to the family Ochotonidae. Pikas are closely related to rabbits and hares and are sometimes called “rock rabbits” or “coneys”. They are found in high-elevation mountain habitats in Asia, North America, and parts of Europe.

Pikas have round ears, a short tail, and a stocky build. They are typically gray or brown in color and have thick fur that helps to insulate them in their alpine environments. Pikas are herbivores and feed on a variety of vegetation, including grasses, sedges, and wildflowers.

Pikas are considered a “climate-sensitive” species because they are particularly sensitive to changes in temperature and snowpack. As global temperatures rise, pikas may be forced to migrate to higher elevations to escape the heat. The American pika, which is found in the western United States, has been identified as a species of concern due to declining populations in some areas.

What is the Colorado Pika Project?

The Colorado Pika Project is a research project implemented by community scientists across Colorado. Through long-term monitoring of pika populations, we are not only providing useful data to researchers and land managers, but we are doing so in a way that educates and engages Coloradans in conservation and the local impacts of climate change.

Walking Mountains helps support this project by hosting outings where we go out as a group to a site and go through the protocols together. Colorado Pika Project also hosts stand-alone trainings that provide everything you need to know about participating in the project.

Register Here