The territorial behaviour and the social–spatial activity of Ochotona hyperborea during the hay-storage season are described and a comparative analysis of Asian and American rock-dwelling species is presented. Seven pairs of O. hyperborea held territories of c. 900 m2, used the same shelter, spent most of their time in the same core area and stored food collectively. Males and females differed in mobility, and behaviour related to defence of territory. The intercontinental comparison of the behaviour and ecology of pikas, based on these data and on published information, revealed that despite different social organization, their mating systems, life-history parameters and population characteristics are very similar.
