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What is the Difference Between Rabbits and Hares?
Although often confused in folklore, popular thought, and even the names of some animals, rabbits and hares belong to distinct genera, meaning that they differ genetically and do not interbreed in nature. Rabbits and hares belong to the family Leporidae and are the two most well known members of the order Lagomorpha, which only includes one other animal, the pika. Although frequently thought of as rodents, rabbits and hares have several features that distinguish them from members of the order Rodentia, and Lagomorpha was established as a separate order in the early 20th century.
One of the most important differences between rabbits and hares is that one rabbit species has been domesticated, while no hares have. While both animals exist in the wild, people do not keep hares as pets or raise them as livestock. For the most part, hares and rabbits differ in appearance, with the larger hare appearing more streamlined and wiry, with larger back legs and feet and very large ears that stick straight up from the head. The many varieties of jackrabbit are among the most well known hares in the Americas, along with the Snowshoe Hare, famous for changing its color seasonally as a form of camouflage.
Rabbits and hares also differ in their lifestyle and behavior. Rabbits are altricial, meaning that they are born blind, hairless, and helpless, while hares are precocial, born with fur and vision and able to fend for themselves fairly quickly. This is no doubt related to the fact that hares give birth in shallow depressions or nests above ground, while rabbits, except for the cottontail genus, are birthed in underground borrows or warrens, which provide increased protection. Most rabbits also live in these warrens as adults in groups, while hares and cottontail rabbits live singly or in pairs in above-ground nests.
To add to the confusion, in addition to the large group of hares called jackrabbits, there is a domesticated variety of rabbit that resembles the jackrabbit and is named the Belgian hare. Many folktales and traditions also confuse the two animals, such as the tradition in many Eastern cultures that either hares or rabbits live on the moon, depending on the source you read. Both animals have ancient and mysterious mythical associations, often related to fertility, as rabbits are avid breeders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main physical differences between rabbits and hares?
Rabbits and hares differ notably in their physical appearance. Hares are generally larger with longer ears and hind legs compared to rabbits. They also have black markings on their fur, which rabbits typically lack. Additionally, hares are born with fur and with their eyes open, while rabbits are born hairless and blind, indicating their level of maturity at birth.
How do the behaviors of rabbits and hares differ in the wild?
Rabbits are social animals that live in groups and burrow underground for shelter and safety. In contrast, hares are more solitary and do not dig burrows; instead, they nest in simple depressions on the ground called forms. Hares rely on their speed and agility to escape predators, while rabbits use their burrows to hide from danger.
Are rabbits or hares more commonly domesticated, and why?
Rabbits are far more commonly domesticated than hares. This is largely due to their more docile and sociable nature, making them easier to breed and raise in captivity. Domestic rabbits have been selectively bred for various traits, including temperament, which has made them popular pets. Hares, being more skittish and less social, are not typically considered suitable for domestication.
What are the reproductive differences between rabbits and hares?
Rabbits have a higher reproductive rate than hares, often giving birth to multiple litters per year, each with several young, known as kittens. Hares, on the other hand, have fewer offspring per litter and breed less frequently. This difference is partly due to the different survival strategies of the two species, with rabbits using their ability to reproduce quickly to maintain their population.
Can rabbits and hares interbreed?
Rabbits and hares cannot interbreed despite being closely related. They belong to the same family, Leporidae, but are different genera (Oryctolagus for rabbits and Lepus for hares) and have different chromosome numbers, which prevents them from producing offspring together. This genetic incompatibility ensures that each species maintains its distinct characteristics.
How do the diets of rabbits and hares differ?
Both rabbits and hares are herbivores with diets consisting mainly of grasses and other vegetation. However, hares tend to have a more varied diet that includes harder, woody vegetation and bark, especially during winter months when other food sources are scarce. Rabbits typically have a less varied diet and prefer softer green plants and vegetables.
Discussion Comments
Rabbits tend to be trainable and loyal. My son had one as a bet and we showed him at 4-H. Mr. Furry won a blue ribbon for behavior and poise! I think they make great pets, especially for little ones to start having that responsibility.
very helpful and descriptive.
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