New England Cottontail
Sylvilagus transitionalis
S. transitionalis is a medium-sized cottontail, slightly smaller than the Eastern Cottontail. They have grayish-brown fur with a white underside and a rusty-brown patch o…
How to identify
S. transitionalis is a medium-sized cottontail, slightly smaller than the Eastern Cottontail. They have grayish-brown fur with a white underside and a rusty-brown patch on the nape of the neck. The ears are relatively long, and the tail is short and fluffy white. Distinguishing them from Eastern Cottontails can be difficult, often requiring skull measurements or genetic analysis.
Range
S. transitionalis has a restricted distribution in the northeastern United States, including parts of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and southeastern New York.
Habitat
S. transitionalis prefers dense, shrubby thickets, early successional forests, and areas with dense undergrowth. They require thick cover for protection from predators and nesting sites. These habitats are often found in areas recovering from logging or other disturbances.
Similar species
The primary similar species is S. floridanus (Eastern Cottontail), which overlaps significantly in range. Subtle differences in skull morphology, such as the shape of the nasal bones, are used for definitive identification. Habitat preferences can also be helpful, as S. transitionalis prefers dense thickets and early successional forests.
Name and etymology
transitionalis: Latin for transition
At a glance
Range
S. transitionalis has a restricted distribution in the northeastern United States, including parts of Maine, New Hampshire, M…
Habitat
S. transitionalis prefers dense, shrubby thickets, early successional forests, and areas with dense undergrowth. They require…
Guide
Mammals of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap