Jackrabbit Information

The name jackrabbit is actually misleading as jackrabbits are in fact hares, not rabbits. Hares are distinct from rabbits by their larger size, longer hind legs and bigger ears. The jackrabbit was so called because of the size of its ears, earning it the nickname jackass rabbit. There are five different species of hare known commonly as jackrabbits in the United States.

  1. Description

    • The jackrabbit looks like a large rabbit and they reach around 2 feet in length when fully grown and can weigh up to 9 lbs. They are generally brown to gray in color, though that can be dependent on species and the time of year. They have long powerful hind legs, which makes them strong, fast runners capable of reaching upward of 40 miles per hour.

    Range

    • Jackrabbits are found throughout North America, and their adaptable nature means they can be found in deserts, open plains, woodlands and farm land. However, they do avoid the colder climates found in some northern states and Canada.

    Diet

    • Jackrabbits are herbivores so they feed mostly on grasses, greens, shrubs, cacti and bark. They will often have to eat over a pound of vegetation every day, so they have to spend a great deal of time grazing and eating.

    Breeding

    • The jackrabbit can reproduce rapidly, with females able to produce multiple litters every year and often having between one to six young. In some areas where conditions stay favorable the jackrabbit can produce litters year-round. They reach sexual maturity after around seven to eight months, meaning that if left unchecked their population can explode out of control. Because of the jackrabbit's fast reproduction process and large appetites, they are often shot to protect crops.

    Predators

    • Other than the protective farmer the jackrabbit has a host of natural predators to help keep their numbers in check. Large predators like coyotes, bobcats and foxes all help to keep down the population as do horned owls, hawks and snakes.