Emerging ecological insights into the conservation of the Omiltemi rabbit (Sylvilagus insonus): Over a century of uncertainty

Sylvilagus insonus is an endemic rabbit of the Sierra Madre del Sur, Guerrero, Mexico, considered one of the most endangered and least studied lagomorphs worldwide. After more than 20 years without records, it was rediscovered through citizen science observation, renewing interest in its ecology and conservation. This study assessed its relative abundance across vegetation types and localities, potential predators, activity patterns, and threats. We deployed camera traps to estimate the Relative Abundance Index (RAI) of S. insonus and its potential predators. Linear regressions were used to analyze the relationship between rabbit abundance, habitat type, and predator presence. Activity patterns were determined for S. insonus and recorded carnivores. Additional threats were documented during fieldwork. A total of 127 independent records of S. insonus were obtained, with an average RAIij of 16.11 ± 14.69. Five potential predators were identified: Urocyon cinereoargenteus, Puma concolor, Leopardus pardalis, Leopardus wiedii, and Herpailurus yagouaroundi. No significant differences were detected between the RAIij of the rabbit and those of its predators. Activity data indicated that S. insonus is both diurnal and nocturnal. No significant difference was found between habitat types, although it was mostly detected in mixed forests. Main threats observed included logging, forest fires, and hunting. These findings provide the first ecological insights into S. insonus and highlight urgent conservation needs. To ensure the species’ persistence, it is crucial to promote sustainable forest management, strengthen fire prevention, increase community involvement, and maintain long-term monitoring with support from authorities and international organizations.