After 112 years without scientific evidence, the natural world celebrates an extraordinary discovery: the Omiltemi rabbit (Sylvilagus insonus), considered extinct since 1909, was rediscovered in the coniferous forests of the Sierra Madre del Sur, in the Mexican state of Guerrero.
This rediscovery was possible thanks to the collaboration with local communities, whose accounts of sightings and traditional uses of the animal guided researchers to key areas. In November 2021, camera traps installed by the scientific team captured the first images of the elusive mammal.
Science and Territory: A Five-Year Quest
Ecologist José Alberto Almazán-Catalán led the expedition in Guerrero
The research was led by the Mexican ecologist José Alberto Almazán-Catalán, who began the project in 2019 and explored at least 10 forested areas over five years.
The initial searches focused on Chilpancingo, where the naturalist Edward William Nelson had last documented the species in 1904. However, after months without results, the team moved to higher altitude areas, where they finally confirmed the presence of the rabbit.
Rediscovery of a rabbit believed to be extinct in Mexico
A Rediscovered Species: Hope for Conservation
The Omiltemi rabbit joins the list of species recovered by Re:wild that were believed to be extinct.
According to the international organization Re:wild, the Sylvilagus insonus becomes the thirteenth species rediscovered under their conservation programs.
This finding not only represents a victory for Mexican biodiversity, but also a strategic opportunity to promote conservation actions in one of the country’s most threatened ecosystems.
What is the Omiltemi Rabbit Like?
Physical characteristics of a unique and elusive species.
This small nocturnal mammal inhabits the dense vegetation of the temperate forests of Guerrero. Its morphology sets it apart from other species in the region:
- Fur: reddish-brown back with a mix of black; blackish-gray flanks and opaque gray facial area.
- Ears: shorter than those of other rabbits, with dark brown tones and black tips.
- Tail: short, black-reddish on the upper part, unlike other species with white tails.
- Body: medium to small size, compact structure adapted to closed environments.
Beyond the Discovery: How to Protect It Now?
The rediscovery demands urgent conservation policies and community participation.
The reappearance of the Omiltemi rabbit poses new challenges for the conservation of endemic species.
Its habitat is threatened by forest fragmentation, climate change, and human pressure, making it urgent to implement monitoring strategies, environmental education, and ecological restoration.
