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Science & Nature • Mammal

Jackrabbit

Jackrabbit is a common name for several North American hare species in the genus Lepus.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jackrabbit is a common name for several North American hare species in the genus Lepus. Despite the name, jackrabbits are hares, not rabbits, and are known for their long ears, long hind legs, and fast running speed. Most species live in open habitats in western and central North America, including parts of Canada.

Classification

Jackrabbits are members of the genus Lepus in the rabbit and hare family, Leporidae. They are hares rather than rabbits, and their young are born furred and relatively well developed.

Physical characteristics

Jackrabbits are typically larger than rabbits, with long ears, strong hind legs, and a lean build adapted for speed. Depending on the species, they are usually around 2 feet long and can weigh between 3 and 9 pounds. They can run up to about 40 mph (64 km/h).

Behaviour and ecology

Jackrabbits are herbivores and feed on grasses, herbs, shrubs, cacti, and other plants. They are most active at night or in low-light periods and rely on speed and erratic bounding to avoid predators.

Distribution and habitat

Jackrabbits occur across western and central North America, including the United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada. They are commonly associated with open country such as deserts, prairies, grasslands, and scrubland.

Key facts

  • Jackrabbits are hares, not rabbits.
  • They have longer ears and hind legs than true rabbits.
  • They are fast runners and use zigzag leaps to evade predators.
  • Jackrabbits live in open habitats such as deserts, grasslands, plains, and farms.
  • There are five species of jackrabbit.
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Canadian context

Jackrabbits are part of Canada’s native mammal fauna in some western and prairie regions, where they are associated with open grassland habitats and can be affected by habitat loss.

Frequently asked questions

Are jackrabbits actually rabbits?
No. Jackrabbits are hares in the genus Lepus, not true rabbits.
How many species of jackrabbit are there?
There are five recognized species of jackrabbit.
How fast can a jackrabbit run?
Jackrabbits can reach about 40 mph (64 km/h), depending on the species and source.
What do jackrabbits eat?
They are herbivores that eat grasses, herbs, shrubs, cacti, and other plants.
What are baby jackrabbits called?
Baby jackrabbits are called leverets.
Do jackrabbits live in Canada?
Yes. Some jackrabbit species occur in Canada, especially in western and prairie regions.

References

  1. National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/jackrabbit
    Supports: Jackrabbits are hares, not rabbits; size, speed, diet, reproduction, and North American range.
  2. U.S. National Park Service — https://www.nps.gov/bibe/learn/nature/jackrabbit.htm
    Supports: Black-tailed jackrabbit classification as a hare and western North American distribution.
  3. Iowa Department of Natural Resources — https://www.iowadnr.gov/news-release/2019-03-05/cool-things-you-should-know-about-jackrabbits
    Supports: Jackrabbits are hares; speed; size; habitat; conservation context.
  4. The Nature Conservancy — https://blog.nature.org/2022/11/09/a-field-guide-to-jackrabbits/
    Supports: Jackrabbits as hares and typical size/weight range.
  5. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department — https://www.tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/rabbit/
    Supports: Black-tailed jackrabbit habitat and appearance in the western United States.