Pikas and prayerflags

On 5 February we visited Migmar's study area, the Nyian Valley in Mozhu Gongga county. This is where he carries out his research on the Plateau Pika (Black-lipped Pika). The Pika is a small rabbit-like mammal that is one of the most characteristic animals of the Tibetan grasslands. His work examined how Pika behaviour and body condition are influenced by Yak grazing and traditional pastoral land use. Surprisingly, he found that Pikas living near herders camps, where yak often rest at night, tended to be heavier and more numerous than those in less disturbed areas. The study highlights the relationships between wildlife, livestock and nomadic livelihoods on the Tibetan Plateau.

At nearly 5,000 metres above sea level, Migmar's study site in the Nyain Valley is shaped by the activities of Plateau Pikas. Their extensive burrow systems create the distinctive perforated landscape seen here.

The Plateau Pika (Ochotona curzoniae)

The Plateau Pika is regarded as a keystone species of the Tibetan Plateau. Their burrowing aerates the soil, improves water infiltration and creates habitat for numerous other species. They are also a vital food source for predators such as foxes, wolves, weasels and birds of prey. Research in recent decades has shown that healthy pika populations can help maintain both biodiversity and ecosystem functioning across Tibet's vast high-altitude grasslands.

You see prayer flags everywhere you go in Tibet. The flags are fluttering from mountain passes, sculptures, bridges, monasteries and rooftops. They are printed with prayers and are believed to spread blessings wherever the wind carries them. Their five colours represent the natural elements: sky, air, fire, water and earth. As the fabric fades and frays in the harsh climate, Tibetans do not see it as decay, but as a sign that the prayers are being released into the world.

The grasslands and surrounding mountains held an nice collection of high-altitude birds, including raptors like a hunting Saker Falcon, several Upland Buzzards, an immature and an adult Lammergeier and a dozen Himalayan Griffon Vulture. Everywhere we went Rufous-necked and White-rumped Snowfinches accompanied us throughout the day. Several family groups of the enchanting Ground Tit were also present. At nearly 5 000 metres above sea level, these hardy birds are all characteristic inhabitants of the Tibetan Plateau.

Rufous-necked Snowfinch (Pyrgilauda ruficollis)

White-rumped Snowfinch (Onychostruthus taczanowskii)

In addition to the Pikas, we saw a few other mammals in this area; a group of Tibetan Gazelles and Blue Sheep, a Himalayan Marmot, some Woolly Hares and a Tibetan fox (Sand Fox).

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