This time we will be introducing the Japanese pika. It inhabits the cool mountainous areas of the Daisetsu mountain range in Hokkaido and Tokachi. It is about the size of a fist and prefers to live on rocky areas known as scree fields.

If you notice it, there

May appear nearby

They are most likely to be seen in the mountains between the time when the snow melts and when it accumulates again. They are most likely to be seen in the mornings.

Early morning encounter

However, it is hard to find the tiny pikas in the scree area with its rugged rocks. They are easy to find because of their distinctive high-pitched cry. By searching by their cry, you can find them in places like this.

From the shadow of the rocks

I especially enjoy observing in autumn. The contrast with the yellow and orange colors of the mountains is very picturesque.

As winter approaches, snow will fall early in the mountains. A little snow is no problem.

Pikas prefer to live in cool places, so if you're heading into the mountains to meet pikas and enjoy the cool weather, be sure to wear proper mountain climbing gear.

Even now, as I write this, the pika is probably running around on a scree field somewhere.