Marsh rabbit Marsh rabbit The marsh rabbit ("Sylvilagus palustris") is a small cottontail rabbit found in marshes and swamps of coastal regions of the Eastern and Southern United States. It is a strong swimmer and found only near regions of water. It is similar in appearance to the eastern cottontail ("Sylvilagus floridanus") but is characterized by smaller ears, legs, and tail. The scientific name "Sylvilagus palustris" derives from a combination of the Latin words "silva" ("forest") and "lagos" ("hare"), plus "palustris" ("of the marsh"). The marsh rabbit has commonly been associated with the group of swamp rabbits; however, this name is not
Snowshoe hare Snowshoe hare The snowshoe hare ("Lepus americanus"), also called the varying hare, or snowshoe rabbit, is a species of hare found in North America. It has the name "snowshoe" because of the large size of its hind feet. The animal's feet prevent it from sinking into the snow when it hops and walks. Its feet also have fur on the soles to protect it from freezing temperatures. For camouflage, its fur turns white during the winter and rusty brown during the summer. Its flanks are white year-round. The snowshoe hare is also distinguishable by the black tufts of fur on