Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 18 cm long filling a third or half of the frame width horizontally. Small birds demand long lenses and a close approach — a blind or feeder setup helps.
| Distance | ⅓ of frame (FF) | ½ of frame (FF) | ⅓ of frame (APS-C) | ⅓ of frame (MFT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 m (16 ft) | 302 mm | 443 mm | 201 mm | 151 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 603 mm | 887 mm | 402 mm | 302 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 905 mm | 1,330 mm | 603 mm | 453 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 1,207 mm | 1,773 mm | 805 mm | 603 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 1,810 mm | 2,660 mm | 1,207 mm | 905 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 3,017 mm | 4,433 mm | 2,011 mm | 1,509 mm |
About the American Pika#
The American pika (Ochotona princeps), a diurnal species of pika, is found in the mountains of western North America, usually in boulder fields at or above the tree line. They are herbivorous, smaller relatives of rabbits and hares.
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Talus slopes above treeline; they gather 'haypiles' in late summer.
- Get down to eye level; a long lens with close focus (or an extension tube) helps with small subjects.
- Sightings peak in July and August, which is when you'll have the most chances.
Ethics#
- The welfare of the animal comes first: if it changes its behaviour because of you, you are too close.
- Stay on trails, respect closures around nests, leks, dens and haul-outs.
- Avoid playback and baiting in sensitive seasons; never bait predators.
- Don't share precise locations of rare, nesting or roosting animals publicly.
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph an American Pika?
At about 18 cm long, an american pika fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 603 mm, or at 20 m with 1,207 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for an American Pika?
1/800 s when it's still; 1/2000 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a American Pika?
Observations in North America peak in July and August. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light and activity.
Sources & licences#
- iNaturalist — Observation data CC BY-NC; photo licence as credited
- Wikipedia — CC BY-SA 4.0
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources