Pygmy Rabbit
Brachylagus idahoensis

This rare inhabitant of Washington's fragmented shrub-steppe landscape is found at just a few sites in Douglas County. During winter at these locations, the pygmy rabbit survives on sagebrush leaves. This dietary requirement and the rabbit's unique habit of digging burrows define its special management needs.

Currently, 3,600 acres of shrub-steppe habitat are being transferred from the Department of Natural Resources to WDFW for monitoring and management of pygmy rabbits.

The pygmy rabbit is classified as a State Endangered Species. The Washington State Recovery Plan for the Pygmy Rabbit, completed in 1995, is available by clicking here