A medium-sized lagomorph native to North America, characterized by dramatic seasonal coat color changes and adapted to boreal and subalpine forest environments.
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ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coniferous and mixed forests of Canada and northern United States, ranging from Alaska to the northeastern United States, typically in dense woodland and forest edge ecosystems
Ecological Role
Critical prey species for predators like lynx, wolves, and eagles; plays significant role in forest ecosystem energy transfer and population dynamics
Morphology
SKIN COATSeasonal color morphs: white in winter for camouflage, brown-gray in summer; thick fur provides excellent thermal insulation
LIMBS WINGSPowerful hindlimbs adapted for rapid jumping, can leap up to 3 meters in a single bound
HEAD SENSORYLarge ears with black tips, excellent peripheral vision, acute hearing for predator detection
BODY STRUCTURECompact body, adult mass 1.3-1.9 kg, body length 40-52 cm, characterized by large hindlimbs and distinctive broad feet for snow locomotion
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: ALAN SCHMIERER
