The American pika is thought by many biologists to be a prime candidate for extirpation as the planet continues to warm. But a new study paints a different, more complex future for this rock-dwelling little lagomorph. Pikas may survive, even thrive, in some areas, the researchers say, while facing extirpation in others. The research is important because pikas are considered a sentinel species for climate change impacts.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/01/160129170500.htm