Phylum: Chordata Characteristics: The eastern cottontail has speckled brown-gray fur above, reddish-brown fur around its neck and shoulders, and lighter fur around its nose and on its undersides. It has big eyes and a tail that is puffy white on the underside. In the winter, its fur may be more gray than brown. It eats green vegetation such as grasses and clover, in summer, and bark, buds, and twigs in winter. This animal is active at night. It does not hibernate in winter. Predators include hawks and owls. Habitat: Eastern cottontail rabbits prefer open areas bordered by thickets or brush areas. Preferably the open area is an old field with tall grass. Nearby burrows are used as protection from predators and harsh weather. Rabbits are sometimes found inhabiting suburbs and cities using lawns and nearby borders of shrubbery and other boundary plantings for food and cover. |
Last updated: April 10, 2015