A List of Rare & Endangered Rabbits

There are several rabbit species considered either vulnerable or in danger of extinction and are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's "Red List," which includes the names of the world's most endangered animals. Along with this list is information regarding the steps being taken to save these species.

  1. Sumatran Striped Rabbit

    • The Sumatran striped rabbit is considered a vulnerable species by the IUCN and only found in specific habitats at over 1,968 feet above sea level. It is native to Sumatra and lives in small numbers on the far southwestern tip of the island. Deforestation for coffee plantations is cited as a reason for the rabbits declining population. Research is needed to assess exact numbers of the species for possible classification as endangered.

    Amami Rabbit

    • The Amami rabbit is considered endangered and is native to the small Japanese islands of Amami-Oshima and Tokuno-Shima. As of 2004, the population on Amami-Oshima numbered between 2,000 and 4,800 rabbits. The species numbers are on the decline due to introduced predatory animals and deforestation.

    Volcano Rabbit

    • The volcano rabbit is native to just four mountainous volcanic areas in Mexico. With the rabbit's habitat so close to the growing urban sprawl of Mexico City and the surrounding farm lands, much of its natural habitat has been destroyed. Conservation efforts have helped the species to start a slow climb to recovery but it is still at risk. This species is considered endangered.

    Tres Maria's Cottontail

    • The Tres Maria's cottontail is native to the four Tres Maria's islands off the west coast of Mexico. The most recent survey performed in 1987 found rabbits only on one of the islands, San Juanito. The population decline is linked to the introduction of domestic animals such as pigs and goats as well as house rats. Hunting by humans also affected this endangered species.

    Omilteme Cottontail

    • The Omilteme cottontail rabbit is an extremely rare species which may already be extinct. The rabbit's habitat is a small area near Omilteme, Mexico. Only three live specimens have ever been recorded and the last record was a rabbit skin obtained from hunters in 1998. Logging and expanding farm land have both decreased the species' natural habitat.