Areas of high concentration of lagomorph species are found in northern and central Mexico. All but 4 species are currently protected in reserves. Species are found, on average, in 8 reserves. Widespread species of low conservation concern are found in the largest number of reserves. In contrast, restricted species such as Romerolagus diazi and S. insonus are found in one to five reserves.
Most reserves have, however, severe problems that jeopardize their long-term conservation.
Because of the distribution trends in lagomorphs, a strategy for their conservation based on general patterns of diversity would be not suitable to protect the most endangered species. Such species have to be protected in specific sanctuaries, that have to be selected with the most accurate data. Presently, excellent information is available for R. diazi, but it is urgently needed for the most critically endangered species, especially S. insonus, L. flavigularis, and L. insularis. Young rabbits, apart from having natural resistance, may also be protected by maternal antibodies, but, as these antibodies are lost over the summer, when the virus spreads little, young adult rabbits often succumb to the disease when it becomes more active again in autumn. As in Spain, The virus has caused greater reductions in rabbit numbers in arid Australia than in cooler, more humid farming areas.