For decades, the residents of Karaudarnau Village have known about a population of wild rabbits that exist on their land. They even have a local Wapichan name for the species "Kazoo-tain" which translates in English as "Long-ears".

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However, until now, this population of rabbits was not known to exist to science. It is therefore unclear if the species is invasive, a subspecies, an existing species or an entirely new species.

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The SRCS are therefore collaborating with Karaudarnau Village, the Field Museum, the Rupununi Wildlife Research Unit and the Royal Ontario Museum to genetically identify the species.

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Between February to April 2023, residents from Karaudnarnau Village captured 2 male and 2 female rabbits for genetic sampling. These samples have been sent to for genetic analysis and we currently are waiting for the results.