Overview

Pronolagus saundersiae – (Hewitt, 1927)

ANIMALIA – CHORDATA – MAMMALIA – LAGOMORPHA – LEPORIDAE – Pronolagus – saundersiae

Common Names: Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare, Hewitt’s Red Rock Rabbit (English), Hewitt se Rooiklipkonyn, Hewitt’s Rooi Klipkonyn (Afrikaans)
Synonyms: Pronolagus australis Roberts, 1933; Pronolagus barretti Roberts, 1949; Pronolagus bowkeri Hewitt, 1927; Pronolagus rupestris ssp. saundersiae (Hewitt, 1927)

Taxonomic Note: Pronolagus saundersiae was formerly included in Pronolagus rupestris with no recognised subspecies (Happold 2013). Whereas P. saundersiae is listed as a subspecies of P. rupestris in Mammal Species of the World (Hoffmann and Smith 2005). It is treated here as a good species.

Assessment Information

Assessors: Wilson-Hartmann, B.¹, Matthee, C.M.² & da Silva, J.³

Reviewer: Moodley, S.⁴

Institutions: ¹McGregor Museum, Kimberley, ²Stellenbosch University, ³South African National Biodiversity Institute, ⁴Private

Previous Assessors and Reviewers: Matthee, C.M., Wilson, B., Robinson, T.J. & Child, M.F.

Previous Contributors: Roxburgh, L. & Smith, A.

Assessment Rationale

Currently, this species is confirmed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed large population, and because it is unlikely to be declining at nearly the rate required to qualify for listing in a threatened category.

Red Rock Hares are widespread but patchily distributed within the assessment region due to their restriction to areas of rocky habitat. However, while their rocky habitats are largely inaccessible and unlikely to be transformed, increasing hunting pressure (inferred from expanding human settlements and anecdotal reports of decline), loss of foraging areas from agricultural expansion, and habitat degradation from overgrazing may be causing local declines and possible extinctions. These species are easily hunted and are thought to be substantially utilised for subsistence or sport hunting. For example, anecdotal reports from the Northern Cape suggest Red Rock Hare have declined over the past 30 years. Similarly, the Natal Red Rock Hare occurs in areas of high human population density and may be increasingly locally threatened by hunting.

Although local declines may be occurring due to overhunting for bushmeat in some areas, there was no evidence to suggest a significant widespread population decline during previous assessments. However, with the outbreak of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus strain 2 (RHDV-2) in November 2022 in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa that subsequently spread to all the provinces (DALRRD 2024), urgent investigations are needed to ascertain the effect on populations and subpopulations.

Reasons for Change

Reason(s) for Change in Red List Category from the Previous Assessment: No change

Red List Index 

Red List Index: No change 

Recommended citation: Wilson-Hartmann B, Matthee CM & da Silva JM. 2025. A conservation assessment of Pronolagus saundersiae. In Patel T, Smith C, Roxburgh L, da Silva JM & Raimondo D, editors. The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. South African National Biodiversity Institute and Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Regional Distribution and occurrence

Geographic Range 

Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare is endemic to southern Africa (Happold 2013), with a continuous range along the escarpment of South Africa, including Lesotho and Eswatini. It is widely distributed in the southern and eastern regions of South Africa (including portions of Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces), as well as Lesotho and western expanses of Eswatini. It occurs throughout the Drakensberg escarpment range (Rautenbach 1982; Lynch 1983, 1989) and is restricted mostly to the top of rocky outcrops but does marginally occur in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Although Robinson (1982) excluded Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare from occurring in northern Free State Province, specimens were positively identified by Lynch (1983). While Hewitt’s and Natal Red Rock Hares occur sympatrically over some areas, all specimens collected in northeast Eastern Cape were identified as Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare, except one specimen from the farm Hamilton (3028Ca) that could be Natal Red Rock Hare (Lynch 1989). The two species are generally separated by habitat preference where P. saundersiae occurs at higher elevations (C. Matthee unpubl. data). For example, in KwaZulu-Natal Province, it occupies the escarpment and top of the Drakensberg from Underberg to Newcastle (Pringle 1974). In Lesotho, only a single specimen (Mt Moorosi) of Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare was collected by Lynch (1994). However, it is inferred to be more widespread in the country due to observations of its characteristic oval and flattened dung pellets and personal communications with local residents (Lynch 1994). The area of occupancy is in a continuous mountainous region and there is no reason to believe that this region is limited or contracting. Due to the rocky nature of the habitat, it is well conserved in many localities.

All museum records need vetting following taxonomic resolution of these species to accurately delineate the distribution maps.

Elevation / Depth / Depth Zones

Elevation Lower Limit (in metres above sea level): 2700

Elevation Upper Limit (in metres above sea level): 3800

Depth Lower Limit (in metres below sea level): (Not specified)

Depth Upper Limit (in metres below sea level): (Not specified)

Depth Zone: (Not specified)

Map

Figure 1. Distribution records for Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare (Pronolagus saundersiae) within the assessment region (South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho). Note that distribution data is obtained from multiple sources and records have not all been individually verified.

Countries of Occurrence 

Large Marine Ecosystems (LME) Occurrence

Large Marine Ecosystems: (Not specified)

FAO Area Occurrence

FAO Marine Areas: (Not specified)

Climate change

The effects of climate change on Pronolagus sp. are currently not well researched, however it can be assumed that climate change per se was unlikely to have a dramatic effect on the Natal Rock Hare during this assessment period. Climate change does however affect the spread of infectious diseases beyond their typical geographic reach. Whilst this may not be the cause of the outbreak of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus strain 2 (RHDV-2) in South Africa at the end of 2022, it can assist in the spread of the virus and increase the susceptibility of hares and rabbits to the effects of droughts and periods of flooding. Often, the cross-border spread of infectious diseases is further exacerbated by the lack of global governance policies or a consensus to mitigate climate change. Future focus should be placed on prioritising infectious disease research and making mitigation recommendations to address possible exacerbation of virus spread that can result from the effects of climate change.

Population information

Populations are considered fairly abundant throughout its distribution (Happold 2013) but rarely collected (Lynch 1989). Population for Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare has been estimated at >10,000 mature individuals (Matthee et al. 2004). The population is characterised as having declined in the past and is predicted to continue declining in the future at a rate of <10% over the next 20 years (Matthee et al. 2004).

Population Information

Extreme fluctuations in the number of subpopulations: Unknown

Continuing decline in number of subpopulations: Suspected

All individuals in one subpopulation: No

Number of mature individuals in largest subpopulation: Unknown

Number of Subpopulations: (Not specified)

Severely fragmented: Yes. Ranges are naturally fragmented across mountainous and rocky areas.

Quantitative Analysis

Probability of extinction in the wild within 3 generations or 10 years, whichever is longer, maximum 100 years: (Not specified)

Probability of extinction in the wild within 5 generations or 20 years, whichever is longer, maximum 100 years: (Not specified)

Probability of extinction in the wild within 100 years: (Not specified)

Population genetics

The species has been investigated briefly in a phylogenetic context (Robinson and Matthee 2005) and at the population level using mtDNA data (Matthee and Robinson 1996). Sampled populations showed geographic structure throughout the range pointing to low levels of gene flow throughout the range. These populations can, however, be regarded as a single metapopulation where isolation by distance is most likely the reason for the high levels of genetic divergence among sampling sites (Matthee and Robinson 1996). Given that more than 10,000 individuals are thought to exist within the region (Matthee et al. 2004) a proxy measure of the populations effective population size can be quantified. Applying a Ne/Nc conversion ratio between 0.1-0.3, it is estimated that Ne exceeds 1,000-3,000 individuals. It is highly recommended that the genetic structure and diversity within this population be verified for accuracy and to monitor possible shifts in projected population declines. 

Habitats and ecology

Habitat preferences for Hewitt’s Red Rock Hare are considered similar to those of other Pronolagus species (Happold 2013). It prefers rocky hillsides and outcroppings, and “rock crevices and boulders are an essential component of the habitat” (Happold 2013). Where its range overlaps with Jameson’s Red Rock Hare (P. randensis), it occurs at higher elevations in areas that have fewer boulders and crevices and higher rainfall (Happold 2013). Habitat loss has been occurring over the last 100 years and is anticipated to continue to decline in total area by <20% over the next 20 years due to commercial plantations (Matthee et al. 2004).

While not much is known about the reproduction of this species, it is likely to be similar to other red rock hares. Breeding is restricted to warmer months during which time a female could produce three to four litters of one to two altricial (naked) young on each occasion (Matthee et al. 2016). Total length ranges from 38.0–53.5cm (Happold 2013).

Ecosystem and cultural services:

Hares and rabbits are recognised as important seed dispersal agents, particularly in harsh environments.

IUCN Habitats Classification Scheme

Life History

Generation Length: (Not specified)

Age at maturity: Female 6 months

Age at Maturity: Male: 6 months

Size at Maturity (in cms): Female

Size at Maturity (in cms): Male

Longevity: (Not specified)

Average Reproductive Age: (Not specified)

Maximum Size (in cms): 43-65

Size at Birth (in cms): (Not specified)

Gestation Time: 35-40 Days

Reproductive Periodicity: Likely to mirror that of P. rupestris, occurring from Sep-Feb.

Average Annual Fecundity or Litter Size: Litters=3-4; LS=1-2

Natural Mortality: (Not specified)

Breeding Strategy

Does the species lay eggs? No

Does the species give birth to live young: Yes

Does the species exhibit parthenogenesis: No

Does the species have a free-living larval stage? No

Does the species require water for breeding? No

Movement Patterns

Movement Patterns: (Not specified)

Congregatory: (Not specified)

Systems

System: Terrestrial

General Use and Trade Information

This species is hunted for meat and sport. It is likely to be fairly important in subsistence communities where they are easily obtained. Malieha (1993) specifically mentioned rock hares as being an important bush meat item in Lesotho and in Zululand, but this is likely to be true throughout its range. As a slow-moving species, they are easily hunted with dogs. At night, they tend to freeze when chanced upon in spotlights and can be easily shot or captured in nets (B. Wilson pers. obs.). During the day, it is also possible to hunt them in their refuges, using a coiled piece of barbed wire that hooks and drags the animal out of its shelter (B. Wilson pers. obs.). While having a particularly warm and thick fur, pelts from these species are prone to hairslip and do not cure well, making them unsuitable for hardwearing fur items. 

National Commercial Value: No 

International Commercial Value: No 

Is there harvest from captive/cultivated sources of this species? No 

Harvest Trend Comments: Hunting is likely to increase as human encroachment continues. 

Threats

The main threat to rock hares is hunting, both for bushmeat and for sport. Hunting pressure is thought to be more severe in areas of high-density human settlements. For example, in Lesotho, it is threatened due to hunting pressure from herders with pack dogs (Lynch 1994). Additionally, agricultural and rural settlement expansion may be increasing incidental predation on rock hares by domestic dogs. Hunting is suspected to be causing local declines (and possibly local extinctions), but it is uncertain whether there is a net decline in the population. Hunting pressure is thought to be more severe in areas of high-density human settlements.

Additionally, agricultural and rural settlement expansion may be increasing incidental predation on rock hares by domestic dogs. Hunting is suspected to be causing local declines (and possibly local extinctions) in all red rock hare species, but it is uncertain whether there is a net decline in the populations. Long-term monitoring should be established to quantify subpopulation trends across species.

In areas where there is intensive sheep farming, the species may face grazing competition (B Wilson pers. obs.). Additionally, because of available food resources, many sheep-farming areas also report higher than normal rates of predators such as Black-backed Jackals (Lupulella mesomelas) and Caracals (Caracal caracal), which is exacerbated by indiscriminate and non-holistic predator control methods (Minnie et al. 2016). These predators pose a threat to the rock hares when at abnormally high numbers. Another possible reason for a decline in population numbers in some areas (for example, the lower Karoo) may be linked to higher-than-normal numbers of sympatric Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis) (B. Wilson pers. obs.). Following recent declines in raptor species in the region (for example, Anderson 2000), some areas have seen population explosions of diurnal hyraxes. The two species now compete directly for food resources. Since rock hare species occur at relatively low densities, it is unlikely that they are considered a significant competitive grazing species and thus are not expected to be persecuted by farmers.

However, a more urgent concern has recently emerged for this restricted population. In October 2022, reports of unusual Lepus deaths were received from the Middelpos, Springbok and Fraserburg areas in the Northern Cape. In November 2022 affected carcasses tested by Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Laboratory, the deaths were confirmed to as the result of the highly contagious and acute fatal hepatitis of Leporids called Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 strain (RHDV-2). The new variant RHDV-2 affects rabbits, but also causes fatal RHD in various Lepus species, including Sardinian Cape hares (L. capensis mediterraneus), Italian hares (L. corsicanus), and mountain hares (L. timidus) (Rocchi & Dagleish 2018). This disease, which originated in China in 1984, primarily affects all rabbit and hares. Caused by a calicivirus, it was previously absent in South Africa. Infection typically occurs by the oral route. It spreads very easily, normally through direct contact between individuals but is also carried by insects, birds, scavengers feeding on carcasses, contaminated food or urine and faeces, and by humans on clothes, shoes, tools and car tyres. The virus can persist in infected meat (even if frozen) and for long periods in decomposing carcasses (Gleeson & Petritz 2020). Incubation varies from one to three days, and death usually occurs 12-36 hours after the onset of fever. The main clinical manifestations of the acute infection are nervous and respiratory signs, apathy and anorexia. In RHDV-2, clinical signs and mortality are observed even in young animals from 7 to 15 days of age onwards. Indirect control of the disease is easily achieved by vaccination. RHDV has never been reported in humans and other mammals.  Outbreaks tend to be seasonal (typically peak breeding seasons) in wild rabbit and hare populations where adults have survived infection and are immune (Kerr & Donnelly 2013). As young kits grow up and stop nursing, they no longer receive the antibodies in their mother’s milk and become susceptible to infection. Mortality rates are high and up to 90% of infected individuals die (WOAH 2025). Not all rabbits exposed to RHDV-2 become overtly ill. A small proportion of infected rabbits clears the virus without developing signs of disease (Kerr & Donnelly 2013).  Asymptomatic carriers also occur, and can continue to shed virus for months, thereby infecting other animals. Surviving rabbits develop a strong immunity to the specific viral variant with which they were infected (Gleeson & Petritz 2020).

This outbreak is of concern for indigenous rabbit and hare species due to their historic naivety to the virus and thus susceptibility to the virus. Whilst a vaccine is available for captive situations overseas, there is no specific treatment for RHDV-2, and management is limited to preventing further spread. Often, the cross-border spread of infectious diseases is further exacerbated by the lack of global governance, a factor that led to the introduction of this disease into South Africa and allowed it to spread to neighbouring countries.

Conservation

Rock hares exist in numerous national and provincial protected areas, as well as, presumably, private protected areas and conservancies. However, these should be collated and confirmed to estimate current occupancy. 

The main intervention at this stage is research to quantify potential threats, area of occupancy, population size and trends. Until such data have been collected, no specific conservation interventions can be proposed. However, the following general interventions will benefit the rock hare species: 

1. Set aside land under crop and livestock agriculture to conserve foraging areas around rocky areas or dry riverbeds. 
2.  Enforce legislation restricting residential development in rocky habitat or hilly slopes. 
3. Employ ecological stocking rates to reduce habitat degradation and grazing pressure. 
4.  Employ holistic management of predators to reduce heightened interspecific predation and competition. 
5. The continued formation of conservancies should be encouraged to protect rocky habitat and reduce localised grazing pressure. 

 Recommendations for land managers and practitioners: 

• Holistic management of ranch lands through reduction in stocking rates, predator control or areas of set-aside habitat. 

 Research priorities: 

• Taxonomic revision is suggested to determine whether the disjunct populations of P. rupestris are genetically distinct – all inferences about geneflow have not been tested. 

• Fine scale distributional studies across the range. 

• Studies on changes in density across a spectrum of habitat quality. Quantification of population size and trends. 

• Studies into the dispersal abilities and survival of subadult individuals in different habitats. 

• Levels of direct persecution by farmers and subsistence hunters, and the efficacy of education and awareness programmes targeted at landowners. 

• Long-term monitoring of population and subpopulation trends. 

• Vetting of museum records to revise distribution maps. 

• Potential of wildlife ranching and the private sector in conserving rock hares. 

• Determination of the impact of RHDV-2 on the southern African population, particularly at subpopulation level. 

 Encouraged citizen actions: 

• Refrain from having too many dogs on farms. 

• Report sightings, especially outside protected areas, on virtual museum platforms (for example, iNaturalist and MammalMAP). Look out for their disc-shaped pellets as an indication of their presence. 

• Balanced farming methods to prevent changes in predation pressures experienced by the hares. 

• Report unusual death outbreaks potentially linked to RHDV-2 and prevent the spread of the disease. 

Bibliography

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Department Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. 2024. Rabbit haemorrhagic disease outbreak update report. Directorate Animal Health, 27 February 2024.

Gleeson, M. and Petritz, O.A. 2020. Emerging Infectious Diseases of Rabbits. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Exotic Animal Practice. 23 (2): 249–261.

Happold, D.C.D. 2013. Pronoloagus saundersiae. In: D.C.D. Happold (ed.), Mammals of Africa vol. III: Rodents, Hares and Rabbits, pp. 717. Bloomsbury, London.

Hoffmann, R.S. and Smith, A.T. 2005. Order Lagomorpha. In: D.E. Wilson and D.M. Reeder (eds), Mammal Species of the World, pp. 185-211. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

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Lynch, C.D. 1989. The mammals of the north-eastern Cape Province. Navorsinge van die Nasionale Museum Bloemfontein 25: 1-116.

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Matthee, C., Collins, K. and Keith, M. 2004. Pronolagus saundersiae. In: Y. Friedman and B. Daly (eds), Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A Conservation Assessment, pp. 424-425. CBSG Southern Africa, Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (SSC/IUCN), Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

Matthee, C., Wilson, B., Robinson, T. and Child, M.F. 2016. Pronolagus spp. – Red rock hares. In: M.F. Child, L.

Minnie L, Gaylard A, Kerley GI. 2016. Compensatory life-history responses of a mesopredator may undermine carnivore management efforts. Journal of Applied Ecology 53: 379-387.

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Roxburgh, E. Do Linh San, D. Raimondo and H.T. Davies-Mostert (eds), The Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho, pp. 1-8. CBSG Southern Africa, Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (SSC/IUCN), Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa.

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