Endangered rabbit spotted AND photographed in Karoo

For the first time in over 20 years, a critically endangered riverine rabbit has been captured on camera for the first time in over 20 years.

The riverine rabbit (Bunolagus monticularis) inhabits dense vegetation along dry riverbeds in South Africa’s Karoo region. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss through cultivation and livestock grazing, the population of these solitary, nocturnal creatures has shrunken to worrying levels.

RABBIT CAUGHT IN CAMERA LIGHTS

In a Facebook post shared on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, the Cape Leopard Trust uploaded a candid photo of a recently spotted riverine rabbit:

Per the post, it’s the first time that a riverine rabbit’s been spotted in this area in over two decades.

“The record was captured unexpectedly on a camera trap set by the Cape Leopard Trust to monitor their Mobi-kraal (mobile predator-proof kraal) project,” the Trust writes. “It was then positively identified by the Endangered Wildlife Trust Drylands Strategic Conservation Landscape team.”

WHY HERE, WHY NOW?

The Trust questioned how and why the rabbit came to appear in this particular location. Ultimately, they theorise that flooding played a major contributing factor.

“The theory is that this rabbit moved to higher ground on these specific two days, due to the riparian area (their expected habitat) being flooded during this time,” the post reads.

“It showcases these incredible animals’ resilience and ability to adapt to changes in their environment – when the surrounding habitat is intact and allows for safe movement.”

HOW TO SUPPORT RIVERINE RABBIT CONSERVATION

It’s heartwarming to see animals like the riverine rabbit out in the wild like this. Indeed, it speaks to their perseverance and adaptability. By the same token, however, it serves as a chilling reminder that these rabbits are still incredibly vulnerable.

To support their conservation, the Endangered Wildlife Trust advises you to adhere to the following:

• Implement sustainable land management practices on your property, such as using good grazing practices.
• Oppose unsustainable development in your area.
• Make sure that you don’t have any illegal traps on your property.
• Manage dogs to prevent them from hunting wildlife.
• Learn to distinguish between the different rabbit and hare species.
• Report rabbit sightings to the Endangered Wildlife Trust at ewt@ewt.org.za.

In other wildlife news, a pangolin was admitted to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital after being rescued from horrendous conditions. Despite a slow start, it is currently on the mend.