We assessed the current distributions for 2 subspecies of the brush rabbit, Sylvilagus bachmani peninsularis and S. b. exiguus, on the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico. On the basis of field sampling, field notes, and voucher specimens in scientific collections, we demonstrated that (1) both subspecies have been previously recorded in mesic habitats with conditions associated with oases and streams; (2) the 2 subspecies exhibit disjunction in their distributions in the middle and southern portions of the peninsula; (3) habitats are threatened by human activities and desertification, which explains why brush rabbit populations are currently fragmented; and (4) specimens of S. bachmani have not been collected or observed in the last 20 years, with effort concentrated mainly in the southernmost part of the peninsula (San Lucas faunal district). We suggest that S. b. exiguus be considered threatened, requiring immediate conservation actions, including habitat preservation; and we suggest that the southern form, S. b. peninsularis, be considered extinct due to anthropogenic activities.
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1 July 2013
Current Distributional Status of Two Subspecies of Sylvilagus bachmani on the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico
Consuelo Lorenzo,
Patricia Cortés-Calva,
Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos,
Sergio Ticul Álvarez-Castañeda
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Western North American Naturalist
Vol. 73 • No. 2
July 2013
Vol. 73 • No. 2
July 2013