The Tres Marías cottontail is an endemic lagomorph restricted to the Islas Marías archipelago, México. Historically, its populations have declined due to habitat modification and introduced species (goats, pigs, feral cats, and Rattus rattus). Despite these threats, the species remained one of the least studied lagomorphs, lacking critical data on its distribution, population size, habitat use, or diet, alongside a total absence of standardized monitoring protocols.  

This project delivered the first comprehensive biological assessment of the species and successfully addressed these critical knowledge gaps and established immediate conservation actions: 

We confirmed its presence across all four islands, more than 40 years after the last published records, precisely delimited its distribution within each and estimated its relative abundance and population density, enabling the first rigorous evaluation of the species' conservation status.

Ecological analyses identified herbaceous vegetation as a key habitat resource and demonstrated that feral goat abundance directly and negatively affects rabbit presence.

Health screening revealed parasite presence at very low prevalence, suggesting currently adequate population health.

Dietary composition is under laboratory analysis from >150 plant species documented on the islands.

We are validating a non-invasive genetic sampling method using fecal DNA for future genetic studies.

On the applied side, we designed and launched a long-term monitoring protocol tailored to park ranger capacity and produced science outreach materials now being distributed within the archipelago. In coordination with Grupo de Ecología y Conservación de Islas, we are advancing an institutional initiative for the definitive eradication of feral goats from Isla María Madre.