Pygmy Rabbit
By Ayla Marsden
The World's Smallest Rabbit or Hare
The Pygmy Rabbit (Brachylagus idahoensis) grows to be only 9.3-11.6 inches and weighs barely a pound. It is distinguishable from other rabbits because of its small ears and legs.
Small but Tough
Despite its size, the Pygmy Rabbit can hop up to 15 miles per hour. They are active year round in temperatures as hot as 100 degrees Fahrenheit to temperatures below zero. They also have long claws and are the only U.S. rabbits that dig their own burrows.
Habitat
Sage Brush
The Pygmy Rabbit's natural habitat is in large, open areas with lots of brush.
In Captivity
When Pygmy Rabbits are kept in zoos, they are tagged by artificial color on their ears
Natural Habitat
The location of the Pygmy Rabbit population
Endangerment
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The Pygmy Rabbit is officially endangered in Washington State. Threats to its habitat include: Conversion of sagebrush land into agriculture; development of oil and gas production; and wildfire frequency in some areas.
Predators & Eating Habits
Predators include: Weasels, coyotes, badgers, owls, and foxes. Pygmy Rabbits primarily eat Big Sage Brush, but they also eat other grasses and forbs.
Lifecycle
Pygmy Rabbits can breed once they reach a year of age. Their gestation period is between 27 and 30 days, with an average of six young per litter, and a maximum of three litters per year.