Marsh Rabbit
Sylvilagus palustris
S. palustris is a medium-sized cottontail with dark brown or blackish fur and a grayish underside. The ears are short and rounded, and the tail is dark brown or blackish…
How to identify
S. palustris is a medium-sized cottontail with dark brown or blackish fur and a grayish underside. The ears are short and rounded, and the tail is dark brown or blackish on top and grayish underneath. They are adapted to semi-aquatic environments.
Range
S. palustris is found in coastal areas of the southeastern United States, from North Carolina southward to Florida and westward to Alabama.
Habitat
S. palustris inhabits freshwater and brackish marshes, swamps, and other wetland areas. They are often found near coastal areas and are good swimmers.
Similar species
S. floridanus (Eastern Cottontail) can overlap in range, but S. palustris prefers wetter habitats and has shorter, rounder ears.
Name and etymology
palustris: Latin for of the marsh
At a glance
Range
S. palustris is found in coastal areas of the southeastern United States, from North Carolina southward to Florida and westwa…
Habitat
S. palustris inhabits freshwater and brackish marshes, swamps, and other wetland areas. They are often found near coastal are…
Guide
Mammals of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap