Pikas are small, fluffy mammals native to central Siberia that have captured the hearts of scientists with their playful antics. Researchers studied a local population of Turuchan pikas on the Primorsky Mountain Ridge in the Irkutsk region and observed them engaging in various forms of play.
These mountain-dwelling creatures were found to be skilled at climbing, jumping, and playing with their environment. They would swing from branches, throw food around, and even hide behind rocks before popping out at each other. The researchers also documented a unique behavior called “jerk-uplifting,” where the pikas would jump onto their hind legs, stretch their front legs forward, and eat leaves or lichen.
What’s remarkable about these pikas is that they engage in play not just for survival, but purely for fun. This is the first time scientists have observed animals from the Lagomorpha order engaging in all three types of play behavior (locomotor, object, and social) in the wild. The researchers believe further study is needed to understand this phenomenon.
The Turuchan pika, a subspecies of the northern pika, grows up to 7.8 inches long and has dense, dark fur that helps them survive in cold habitats. Their strong hind legs make them well-adapted for climbing and playing. The researchers’ study provides valuable insights into the behavior and social nature of these fascinating creatures.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/turuchan-pika-the-adorable-ball-of-fluff-that-just-loves-to-play