Distribution and population size of the volcano rabbit or zacatuche (R
omerolagus diazi) were investigated at El Pelado volcano, one of the f
our remaining core distribution areas left in Mexico. Latrines or feca
l pellets were counted at 342 randomly selected sampling sites between
1986 and 1989. Rabbits also were censused directly from horseback alo
ng 29 line transects in October 1988. There was a significant correlat
ion between the mean number of latrines and mean number of rabbits sig
hted within each of four categories of abundance. Spatial distribution
was mapped based on these categories of abundance. Mean size of popul
ations of volcano rabbit was estimated at 6,488 individuals (range of
2,478-12,120). The lower value (2,478) should be used for conservation
efforts. Most volcano rabbits occurred at 3,150-3,400 m elev., mainly
in the upper and middle southern slopes.