Rediscovery of the hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal after three decades

After being presumed extinct for over three decades, the critically endangered hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus) was rediscovered in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, in January 2016. This marks its first confirmed presence in the park since 1984, expanding its known range within Nepal's national parks. The discovery was documented through photographic evidence, confirming the species' survival in isolated grassland patches. The study highlights the urgent need for further research on the hare's population status and distribution across Nepal's lowland grasslands, given the rapid decline driven by anthropogenic pressures and grassland fires. This finding underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect this rare mammal, which is found only in Nepal, India, and Bhutan.

Khadka, B. B., Yadav, B. P., Aryal, N., & Aryal, A. (2017). Rediscovery of the hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal after three decades. Conservation Science, 5(1), 10–12. https://doi.org/10.3126/cs.v5i1.18560