Latin Name |
Sylvilagus palustris |
Conservation Status |
Least Concern |
Location
| USA |
Colour |
Dark Brown - Reddish/Brown |
Length |
42 - 44 cms (16.5 - 17.3 inches) |
Tail |
- |
Weight |
1.2 - 2.2 Kgs (2.6 - 4.9 lbs) |
Life Expectancy |
Up to 4 Yrs |
Main Characteristics
Marsh Rabbits are medium sized rabbits that have a body length between 42 and 44 cms (16.5 - 17.3 inches) and they weigh between 1.2 and 2.2 kgs (2.6 - 4.9 lbs).
They are dark brown to reddish brown in colour with a dark coloured underside. Unlike other cottontails, Marsh Rabbits have a dark coloured underside on their tail. Their rounded ears are short and they have small feet.
They are good swimmers and they often dive into water to escape predators.
Habitat
Marsh Rabbits are found in lowland, marshy areas near to a permanent source of water in south eastern USA. They are nocturnal and solitary, but individuals may be seen gathered together in areas that have plenty of resources.
Diet
Marsh Rabbits feed on a variety of vegetation, such as grasses, fruits and bulbs. During the winter months they will also feed on twigs and bark.
Breeding
Marsh Rabbits breed from February to September but they are known to breed throughout the year in southern Florida. They produce 3 - 4 litters per year and after a gestation period of 28 - 37 days, they will give birth to 2 - 5 young.
At birth the young rabbits are helpless but they grow quickly and are weaned at 12 - 15 days old. They reach sexual maturity at around 7 months old.
Predators
Predators of Marsh Rabbits include snakes, owls, birds of prey, bobcats, foxes and red wolves.
Subspecies
Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit
(Sylvilagus palustris hefneri)
Upper Keys Marsh Rabbit
(Sylvilagus palustris paludicola)
Marsh Rabbit
(Sylvilagus palustris palustris)
Interesting Facts
The subspecies Sylvilagus palustris hefneri was named after Hugh Hefner.
Similar Animals
Swamp Rabbit
Tapeti
Venezuelan Lowland Rabbit
Omilteme Cottontail
Dice's Cottontail
Mexican Cottontail
Eastern Cottontail
Desert Cottontail
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