American Pika Disappears from Large Swath of High Sierra

Recent research shows the largest area of extinction yet reported; climate change likely to blame.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

A recent study in the journal PLOS One has depressing numbers to report: the American pika, a small mammal that thrives at high elevations and cold temps, has disappeared from a 64-square-mile area of the High Sierra between Tahoe City and Truckee. The researchers predict that by 2050, the climate conditions suitable for the pika’s survival will plummet by 97 percent.

Trending on Backpacker