A Signature Squeak: Acoustic Features Related to Identity in American Pika

Abstract

My research will explore the communication system of American Pika (Ochotona princeps) with a specific focus on the individual identity cues in their short calls. American pika produce vocalizations that aid in individual identification and territory protection, but little research has been conducted indicating acoustic features related to identity in the calls. I will record individual calls from multiple pika in the Highwood region of Kananaskis, Alberta. Calls were measured and compared to determine if any call variation exists between individuals using discriminant function analysis. Data suggests these calls do contain acoustic features that should allow individuals to recognize each other by sound alone. This provides us with a better understanding of territorial behaviour in pika. Because pika live in high alpine scree locations they are key indicators of the effects of climate change. Therefore, any exploration into their behaviour may aid in understanding the potential effects of climate change on this species and perhaps alpine species more generally.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Shannon Digweed