Cottontail rabbits are in the Sylvilagus genus, which is in the family Leporidae. They are found in the Americas. [1] . Most Sylvilagus species have stub tails with white undersides that show when they retreat, giving them their characteristic name. However, this feature is not present in all Sylvilagus, nor is it unique to the genus.

The Eastern cottontail is chunky, red-brown, or gray-brown in appearance, with large hind feet, long ears, and a short, fluffy white tail. Its underside fur is white. There is a rusty patch on the tail.

Jan 26, 2019 · Named for its white, cottony-looking tail, the Eastern Cottontail is 15 to 19 inches long (38–48 cm) and weighs 2 to 4 pounds (0.9–1.8 kg). Males and females are generally the same size and color.

Everything you should know about the Cottontail. The Cottontail is a medium-size rabbit with med-long ears, adorable round eyes, and a fluffy white tail.

Mar 10, 2025 · If you’re considering getting a pet rabbit, it’s important to do your research to determine the best fit for your lifestyle and home environment. Cottontail rabbits are a popular choice among pet owners due to their cute and cuddly appearance.

The eastern cottontail is the most familiar rabbit in Virginia and easily recognized by most Virginians. The upper body parts are typically reddish-brown, lower parts are white, and it often has a white spot on the forehead. Its short, fluffy tail is also white, hence the name cottontail.

The underside of a wild rabbit’s tail is white and while the rabbit zigs and zags while fleeing a predator, its flashing white tail can be very confusing to its pursuer. The white underside of a rabbit tail is also used to signal other bunnies in the wild when danger is present.

The cottontail is reddish brown to gray along the back and sides, with a gray to white underside. The underside of the tail is white, resembling a cotton ball. Tail length averages 2 inches. It has large hind feet with well-muscled and powerful hind quarters; Long ears provide outstanding hearing ability; Body-length ranges from 15-19 inches

What are Cottontail Rabbits? Cottontail rabbits are one of the most common species of wild rabbits. Their characteristically white tail earned them their name while their darker body fur is meant to keep them hidden from the constant threat of nearby predators. These rabbits deserve our respect and should be kept in the wild where they belong.

Jun 4, 2007 · The tail is short and white on the undersurface, and its similarity to a cotton ball is the origin of this rabbit's common name. The New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis) is occasionally found in the northeastern, south-central, and southwestern counties, and closely resembles the eastern cottontail.