In the spring, as the days start to get longer and warmer, rabbits undergo a process called "molting." During this time, they shed their thicker winter coat and grow a lighter, shorter one. This helps them shed the excess heat and stay cool during the warmer months.
In the fall, as the days get shorter and temperatures drop, rabbits start to grow a thicker and denser winter coat. This coat provides them with insulation and protection against the cold, allowing them to conserve body heat and survive in colder climates.
In general, wild rabbits and rabbits kept as pets experience these seasonal changes in their fur to cope with the varying weather conditions. Depending on the climate they live in, rabbits may have more noticeable changes in their fur or more gradual ones.
Apart from fur changes, some rabbits may also experience slight alterations in their behavior during different seasons. For instance, during the spring, rabbits tend to be more active, mate, and engage in courtship behaviors. In winter, they may spend more time in their burrows or sheltered areas to stay warm.
Overall, rabbits adapt to seasonal changes primarily through modifications in their fur, which helps them regulate body temperature and survive in different climates. These changes are essential for their survival and well-being in the wild.