Field Guide to the Prairie

	Eastern Cottontail Sylvilagus floridanus Length: 43 cm or 17 inches Habitat/Range: It is native to most of southern Canada, most of the central and eastern United States and much of Mexico. It prefers wooded swamps, brushy areas, and woodland edges. It does not prefer the prairie or closed forest. Eating Habits: The eastern cottontail is generally alone and is crepuscular and nocturnal. It eats green vegetation in the summer and twigs and bark in the winter. The females are territorial.

The cottontail rabbit is grayish brown-colored with a gray rump. Its underside is white and has a reddish neck. The white fluffy tail is held up when the animal runs. Its coloration does not differ much between summer and winter. The eastern cottontail is generally alone and is crepuscular and nocturnal. The females are territorial.
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