The Cottontail Rabbit

The Cottontail Rabbit

- Kate

          The cottontail rabbit is a very common rabbit in Colorado. They might seem like annoying pests, always eating people's lawns and leaving spots of dead grass all over the grass. Yes, it is true that they can be pests, but they are also very interesting animals. Here are some facts about this rabbit and how it can be more than just a pest. Most of these facts are about eastern cottontail rabbits, but there are also facts that can relate to all types of cottontail rabbits.

Habitat

          The cottontail rabbit likes to live in meadows or fields but also adapts to living with humans. They usually like to nest under bushes or decks, where they are safer than they are out in the open. Most also dig holes in the ground, almost like a prairie dog. They will make their nests in fireplaces and flowerbeds too.

Food

          Cottontail rabbits eat grasses and herbs, and will also eat things from your gardens such as flowers or veggies. They usually feast at night, so it is hard to prevent them from eating your vegetation. Although they will also eat throughout the day too. They will eat bark and sticks during the winter when other food isn't as available.

Looks

          The cottontail rabbit is mostly gray or brown. The young look a lot like the adult rabbits, just cuter. They have a small white tail, kind of like a cotton ball. They don't grow to be very big, and they can blend in with their surroundings well.

Cottontail Rabbit Juvenile 

Fun Facts

• They are very fast
• They can jump about 1-2 feet into the air (I've seen them do it 😂)
• Scientific Name: Sylvilagus floridanus 
• Produce 3-4 litters of young per year
• Like to live in one area for most of their lives
• It's a lot of fun to watch them fight and play 😁
• For more facts, you can go to https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/species/cottontail-rabbits/index.html or search "cottontail rabbit fun facts"