Rabbits

Rabbits are small, furry mammals with long ears and powerful back legs. They are found on every continent except Antarctica. There are over 30 species of wild rabbits. Rabbits are herbivores, which means they only eat plants.

Fast and Hoppy

Rabbits can run up to 35 miles per hour to escape predators. Their long ears can rotate in different directions to listen for danger. When a rabbit senses danger, it thumps its back foot on the ground to warn other rabbits. Their eyes are on the sides of their heads, giving them nearly 360-degree vision.

A fluffy mountain hare with thick winter fur.
A fluffy mountain hare with thick winter fur. (Jacques Christophe Werner (1798-1856), in Histoire naturelle des mammifères, volume 4 by Frédéric Cuvier (1773-1838) / Wikimedia Commons)

Baby Bunnies

Baby rabbits are called kittens or kits. A mother rabbit can have up to 12 babies at a time. Wild rabbits live in underground tunnels called warrens. A warren can have many rooms and exits. Rabbits are very social and like being around other rabbits.

Fun Facts

  • A rabbit's teeth never stop growing.
  • Rabbits can jump up to 3 feet high and 9 feet forward.
  • They eat their own droppings to get extra nutrients.

Did You Know?

A happy rabbit will jump and twist in the air. This joyful movement is called a binky! It shows that the rabbit is feeling safe and playful.