Where Do Bunnies Go in the Winter?

Rabbits are adorable little animals that live in many different climates. Their coats vary in length, thickness, and color. The thicker the coat, the warmer and better equipped you are for the cold. During winter, these little animals undergo many changes to prepare for winter. But where do rabbits go in winter? Do they travel far?

Read on to discover how Bunnies survive a cold, brutal and harsh winter.

where do rabbits live

Bunnies, also called rabbits, live almost everywhere. You can find them in swamps, marshes, prairies, mountains, pastures, and deserts. There is no difference between the two words. they are used interchangeably. This article uses both, but they are the same animal.

Originally from Europe and Africa, wild rabbits flourished through trade and formed communities around the world. There are about 29 species in all. Some rabbits are domesticated and live indoors. With proper diet, care, and space, domestic rabbits can live up to 10 years.

common rabbit breeds

Rabbits look very similar, so it’s easy to confuse them. However, there are common rabbit species with unique characteristics. Listed below are four common bunny types and interesting facts about each.

1. Eastern Watao

The Eastern watao is very common throughout North America. They can be found in nearly every state in the central and southern United States. Eastern cottonwort also grows in southern Canada, northern South America, and eastern Mexico. They often live in large meadows and open fields where grasses and plants are abundant. These rabbits stay in the same place for the rest of their lives, weather permitting. However, if they don’t have enough food, they travel short distances. In winter, they travel longer distances to forage and seek refuge.

2. Volcano Rabbit

Cute volcano rabbit. A small rabbit that lives in the mountains of Mexico. Unfortunately, they are an endangered species. These tiny rabbits live up to 9 years in the wild and weigh up to 1.3 pounds. The pygmy rabbit is the second smallest rabbit in the world. This cute bunny has short, rounded ears that can be mistaken for a large mouse. Volcano rabbits live in groups of two to five animals in underground nests. It is estimated that there are less than 7,000 volcano rabbits left in the world.

3. Swamp Rabbit

Swamp rabbits are the largest species of cottontail rabbit. This rabbit lives mainly in the southern United States. As the name suggests, they live in swamps and marshes. Swamp rabbits can swim. Very common in Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Sadly, when snow falls in these states, they lose snow cover and primary food sources, reducing populations. Swamp rabbits are the largest species of cottontail hare, but they have smaller ears and a cinnamon he-brown around the eyes.

4. Flemish Giant Rabbit

Have you ever seen a Flemish Giant Rabbit in person? They are the largest domestic rabbit species in the world. These rabbits have been known to grow up to 22 pounds. They were first bred in Flanders in the 16th century. They are descended from many older rabbit species, some of which are now extinct. Flemish giants require special crates or cages and plenty of space. For example, in the United States, rabbits over 12 pounds require at least 5 square feet of floor space. Owners of Flemish Giant Bunnies need to feed their pets a lot, but the diet is just like any other domestic bunny needs fresh vegetables and fruits.

How do rabbits survive the winter?

How do rabbit species native to cold regions of the world survive winters with freezing temperatures and severe snow? Rabbits survive winter by developing thick, warm fur. By late fall, the shedding stops and the coat thickens. Unlike other animals, they do not hibernate during the winter. Instead, they forage for food and seek out places away from predators. Most wild bunny species have brown coats, which makes them prey to large predators during snowfall.

What do rabbits eat in winter?

Wild rabbits eat a lot of fiber. During summer and spring they consume fresh grasses, herbs, and other light plants. Instead of eating grasses and other vegetables, they seek bark, pine needles, and other wood-based food sources. If you want to help your bunnies during the winter, don’t feed them directly. This will get them used to humans and stop them looking for food. Instead, keep a few plants outside that can thrive in winter, like dandelions and other cool greens.

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