Pika - Pika (062)

About the Ezo Pika

Known as the "God of the Rocks," this ice age survivor's sharp "pichit" cry echoes through the mountains, making it a beloved sight for hikers.

• Survivor from the Ice Age: A member of the Lagomorpha order, family Ochotonidae. It measures 10-20cm in length and weighs 60-150g. Though it might look like a mouse, it's actually a rabbit relative with four incisors in its upper jaw.
• Inhabits Alpine Scree Slopes: Found in rocky areas at altitudes of 800-2,200m in the Daisetsuzan mountain range, Hidaka Mountains, Yubari Mountains, and Kitami Mountains. The cool environment created by rock crevices is essential for its survival.
• Distinctive Cries: It claims its territory with high-pitched calls like "pichit" and "kii." This is the origin of its Japanese name, "Naki Usagi" (crying rabbit).
• Does Not Hibernate: From summer to autumn, it collects plants to "hoard food" and endures the harsh winter under rocks.
• Endangered Species: Its population is declining due to changes in its habitat caused by climate change. It is designated as a Near Threatened species on the Ministry of the Environment's Red List.

About the Photographer

Kei Sato - An animal photographer dedicated to capturing Hokkaido's wildlife

Born in Rumoi City, Hokkaido, in 1979. Representative of SLASH Photo Office, OM SYSTEM PRO SERVICE member, and MILLET Ambassador. He has been climbing Mt. Daisetsuzan for over 10 years, documenting the ecology of the Ezo squirrel and Ezo pika.

Books: "The Mountain Gardener: Ezo Squirrel," "Kei Sato Photo Collection: Secret Scenic Views in Hokkaido," "Ezo Pika: Bonding with Calls"

Awards: Grand Prize at the 35th Japan Nature Photo Contest, Nagaoka Award and Nikkor Grand Prize (Division 3) at the 70th Nikkor Photo Contest

Photo Exhibitions: 2024 OM SYSTEM GALLERY "Bird Shadows: Hokkaido, Paradise for Wild Birds," etc. He has also appeared on Nippon TV's "Sekai no Hate Made Itte Q!" and "Ahh!! Minna no Doubutsuen."

Recommended for

• A gift for mountain climbing enthusiasts
• Souvenir from a trip to Hokkaido
• A gift for wildlife fans
• A special gift for coffee lovers
• To remember Daisetsuzan

Package Contents

Home-roasted Coffee Beans (10g) - Serves 1 cup

• Low-acid, easy-to-drink dark roast
• Blend of carefully selected beans from Brazil, Ethiopia, and more
• Best by date: 12 months from roast date
• Package size: 120mm × 100mm × 5mm

About the Premium Souvenir

TAISETSU COFFEE is drip coffee with packaging featuring Hokkaido's wildlife photography. The precious images of the Ezo pika, which Kei Sato has pursued for over 10 years, are vividly printed. It's the perfect high-quality gift to evoke memories of Hokkaido's nature.