The Rare and Mysterious Ili Pika

The Ili pika is an endangered animal native to northwest China. It is nocturnal and is around 20.4 cm long. It has been nicknamed “China’s magic bunny.” The Ili pika was first discovered in 1983 and was named Ili pika 3 years later. The animal was not documented again until May 2014. There have been 29 live sightings reported.

The Ili pika population has been reduced by 70% in the last 15 years. The exact cause for the Ili pika’s decline is unclear, but most scientists estimate that climate change and air pollution have negatively affected populations. There are also theories that a disease might be spreading through the Ili Pika. According to the IUCN red list, there are less than 1,000 individuals in the wild. The Ili pika has been ranked endangered on the IUCN red list.

Almost nothing is known about the ecology or behavior of these small animals. They are mostly diurnal, but may also exhibit nocturnal activity. During the winter season they are more active during the day, while during the spring and fall, they are more active at night. Ili pikas don't hibernate and lead solitary lives. Unlike other rock-dwelling pikas, they are less likely to chatter.