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Learn about the differences between New England cottontail and snowshoe hare, two rabbit-like species in Maine. Find out their habitat, diet, reproduction, threats, and conservation status.
The most distinctive characteristic of snowshoe hares is their unusually large feet. In winter, most subspecies of snowshoe hare develop pure white coats, which cottontail rabbits do not. Cottontail rabbits on the whole look like typical rabbits – fairly small with midlength ears and a range of subdued greys, fawns and browns.
What are the key differences between Snowshoe Hares and Cottontail Rabbits? Snowshoe Hares and Cottontail Rabbits are similar-looking but distinct animals. Snowshoe Hares are generally larger, with longer ears and much longer feet. Cottontail Rabbits, on the other hand, belong to the genus Sylvilagus, which consists of 16 species.
Look-a-likes. Despite the fact that they are separate species, the New England cottontail and eastern cottontail are nearly identical in appearance. Both have a grayish brown pelt flecked with black, and a white tail, but there can be some subtle physical differences.
Learn the difference between snowshoe hares and cottontail rabbits, two common bunnies in Minnesota. See how they differ in range, winter coat, feet, ears and more.
Although the New England cottontail is the only true rabbit native to Maine, the similar Eastern cottontail (nonnative) and the larger snowshoe hare are also found in Maine. All three species have a white “cotton” tail. Below are a few ways to tell the difference.
Snowshoe hares are somewhat larger than cottontail rabbits. They average around 18 to 20 inches (.5 m) in total length and weigh 3 to 4 pounds (1.4–1.8 kg). In summer the coat is yellowish to grayish brown with white underparts, and the tail is brown on top.
