Lower Keys rabbits are vertebrate mammals that live in the Southeast region. They are 16 inches long, 9-12 pounds and have brownish-gray fur. Its' common name is Sybriagus palustris hefneri. 

There are about 259 individuals left. They eat plants, grass, buds, flowers and leaves. They live in mazes, dens and nests in the lower Keys, Florida. They have six to twelve young per litter and produce three to five litters per year. 

This animal is endangered for a couple of reasons. One is house cats that chase and eat them. They get close to the road at night, which  they are active, and cars can run them over. The last reason is humans. Humans used to hunt them down for their meat and fur. If this animal disappears, our food chain will be all messed up just from one animal gone from nature.  

A U. S. Navy sponsored study is going to seek the basic needs of the  species. They are also saving wetlands around the range to be protected. 

What I would try to do to help the lower Keys rabbits is top form groups and clubs. Can tell everyone not to hurt the animals. It is better to have nature than factories and pollution. With my plan and the U. S. Navy sponsors, I hope we can help these lower Keys rabbits. 

I found all my information on the web at www.fnai.org/Vert.html #MAMMALS , the Endangered Species of the Southeast, and the book Raising Rabbits by Ann Kanable, copyright - 1971 

Written by / geschreven door : Kristen

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