Sylvilagus andinus (Thomas, 1897)

Nomenclature and Native Range

The Andean tapeti (Sylvilagus andinus), also called the Andean cottontail, is a species of cottontail rabbit native to Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and Ecuador.

Taxonomic History

It was previously classified as a subspecies of the common tapeti (Sylvilagus brasiliensis), and a 2017 genetic and morphological analysis confirmed that it is distinct enough to be recognized as a separate species.

Habitat

This species lives at high elevations in the treeless Páramo of the Andes.

Ecological Role

It fills an important ecological role: it is a widespread herbivore that feeds on a wide variety of plant species, and it is also a key food source for multiple predators.

Morphological Measurements

Measured characteristics of the species include a head and body length between 326 and 353 mm, a small tail that makes up 6 to 7% of its head and body length, and long hindfeet measuring 64 to 81 mm.

Coloration

It has a dusky overall appearance, with brown shading across its forehead, ashy gray coloring on its cheeks and the sides of its neck, and a whitish chin and belly.

Research Status

Although the Andean tapeti is widespread, it remains poorly studied, because few studies have examined its biology and habits separately from those of the common tapeti.