Relating sub-surface ice features to physiological stress in a climate sensitive mammal, the American pika (Ochotona princeps).

ABSTRACT: The American pika (Ochotona princeps) is considered a sentinel species for detecting ecological effects of climate change. Pikas are declining within a large portion of their range, and ongoing research suggests loss of sub-surface ice as a mechanism. However, no studies have demonstrated physiological responses of pikas to sub-surface ice features. Here we present the first analysis of physiological stress in pikas living in and adjacent to habitats underlain by ice. Fresh fecal samples were collected non-invasively from two adjacent sites in the Rocky Mountains (one with sub-surface ice and one without) and analyzed for glucocorticoid metabolites (GCM). We also measured sub-surface microclimates in each habitat. Results indicate lower GCM concentration in sites with sub-surface ice, sugg

SUBMITTER: Wilkening JL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4372430 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature