Volcano rabbit

The volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi) (Spanish: conejo de los volcanes), also known as the teporingo or zacatuche, is a small mammal in the family Leporidae that resides on the slopes of volcanoes in Mexico. It is the only species in the genus Romerolagus. It has small rounded ears, short legs, a large forehead, and short, thick fur. Adult rabbits can weigh from 386 to 602 grams (0.851 to 1.327 pounds). The volcano rabbit lives in groups of 2 to 5 animals in burrows (underground nests) and runways among bunchgrasses. Up to 3 young are produced per litter, born in nests formed from shallow depressions in the ground lined with fur and plant matter.

Uniquely among the rabbits, the volcano rabbit emits high-pitched sounds to warn other rabbits of danger, a habit common in the related pikas. It is awake and most active in the evening and early morning. Populations have been estimated as approximately 7,000 adult individuals over their entire range. Human developments surrounding the volcano rabbit's habitat, including overgrazing, hunting, and burning of the species' preferred scrublands have caused significant declines in population, even in protected parks. Both the IUCN and the Mexican government consider the volcano rabbit an endangered species, and it is listed on Appendix I of the CITES treaty, which is intended to restrict trade of the animal.