Rabbits in a Natural Habitat
Rabbits are a common sight to those who live in a moderate North American environment, but they are also a big enough group to encompass many other habitats where the average rabbit species would not typically live. This means that they are an adaptable group, covering a wide range of habitats.
Other People Are Reading
-
Features
-
Rabbits and hares are part of the taxonomic family Lagomorpha, and there are numerous species that span a wide range of habitats. Their characteristics are well-suited for their environments. The most distinctive feature--their long, powerful hind limbs--makes them extraordinary runners capable of dashing from predators in a typical footrace.
Habitats
-
According to Texas Tech University, rabbits typically live in grasslands, forests, meadows, woods and thickets (which is a dense growth of shrubs, brushes or small trees). They also may be found in deserts and wetlands, but these habitats are the domain of only a few species such as the swamp rabbit, marsh rabbit and desert cottontail.
-
Elevation
-
Most rabbits prefer these flat areas of land in which they can use their long legs. However, a few species such as the volcano rabbit and mountain cottontail, both of which may be found in the southern United States or Mexico, live along slopes at high elevations.
Climate
-
Rabbits thrive best in moderate climates. This is why nearly half the rabbit population resides in North America, but rabbits also live in Europe, India, Japan and parts of Africa. They have also been introduced into Australia and surrounding islands. The polar hare and desert cottontail are two species that live in extreme rather than moderate temperatures.
Burrows
-
Besides their natural habitats, rabbits also dig their own artificial burrows. A group of burrows is called a warren, where a herd of rabbits live. Female rabbits dig each underground room, which may be used for "sleeping quarters" or nests for raising babies, and link them through narrow tunnels.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit urban rabbit image by jesse welter from Fotolia.com
