3 Types of Rabbits in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is home to three main rabbit species: the widespread Eastern Cottontail, the rarer New England Cottontail, and the winter-ready Snowshoe Hare. Start your identification by noting the tail color and ear length. The Eastern Cottontail is the one you'll most likely see in backyards and fields.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 7, 2026.
- 4
- species recorded
- May, June, April
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
3 types of rabbits recorded in Massachusetts
3 rabbit species have a verified observation record in Massachusetts across the rabbit and hare family (Leporidae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1 of the 3 shown is recorded as introduced to Massachusetts rather than native.
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Plus 1 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
17,356 verified observations on iNaturalist of rabbit have been recorded in Massachusetts, most often in May, June, April.
Massachusetts is home to three main rabbit species: the widespread Eastern Cottontail, the rarer New England Cottontail, and the winter-ready Snowshoe Hare. Start your identification by noting the tail color and ear length. The Eastern Cottontail is the one you'll most likely see in backyards and fields.
What Are the Most Common Rabbit Species in Massachusetts?
You will most likely encounter three rabbit species in Massachusetts. The Eastern Cottontail (*Sylvilagus floridanus*) is the most widespread and often seen in suburban areas. The New England Cottontail (*Sylvilagus transitionalis*) is a native species that prefers young forest habitat. The Snowshoe Hare (*Lepus americanus*) lives in the western parts of the state and turns white in winter. For more on their habitats, check outrabbits in Massachusetts.
How Can You Tell an Eastern Cottontail from a New England Cottontail?
The easiest way to separate these two is by looking at the tail and ears. Eastern Cottontails have a bright white tail that is very visible when they run, while New England Cottontails have a grayish underside on the tail. Also, Eastern Cottontails often have a black patch between the ears, which New England Cottontails lack. If you spot a rabbit darting across a field with a flashing white tail, it is almost certainly an Eastern Cottontail.
Where and When to Spot Each Type of Rabbit?
Eastern Cottontails are active year-round and can be seen at dawn and dusk in fields, lawns, and forest edges. New England Cottontails stick to dense thickets and young forests with plenty of cover, making them harder to spot. Snowshoe Hares are found in the higher elevations of western Massachusetts, especially in areas with coniferous forests. Your best odds for seeing any rabbit are during the warmer months when vegetation is abundant. Visit theMassachusetts wildlife hubfor more spotting tips.
What Does the Eastern Cottontail Look Like?
The Eastern Cottontail is medium-sized, about 15-18 inches long, with reddish-brown fur and a distinctive white fluffy tail. It has large brown eyes and long ears, often with a black tip. Its belly is white, and it has a light-colored ring around the eye.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What Does the New England Cottontail Look Like?
The New England Cottontail is smaller and darker than the Eastern Cottontail, with a brownish-gray coat and no white tail flash. Its ears are shorter and lack the black tips. A key field mark is the black line on the outer edge of the ears. It also has a white belly but the tail is brownish above.
What Does the Snowshoe Hare Look Like?
The Snowshoe Hare is larger than the cottontails, with big hind feet that act like snowshoes. In summer it is brown with a white belly, but in winter it turns completely white except for the black ear tips. Its ears are shorter than a jackrabbit's but longer than a cottontail's.
Where Can You Find Snowshoe Hares in Massachusetts?
Snowshoe Hares in Massachusetts are primarily found in the Berkshire and western hill towns, where coniferous and mixed forests provide cover. They are most active at dawn and dusk, and you can often spot their tracks in the snow during winter. For identification help, check out ourrabbit identification guide.
Show Your Rabbit Spotting Pride
After a day of spotting rabbits in Massachusetts, why not wear your find on your sleeve? We've picked out a few items that capture the spirit of rabbit watching.
Vintage Rabbit Art 90s Oversize Graphic Tee
This comfortable, one-of-a-kind shirt features vintage rabbit art that any rabbit spotter will appreciate. Perfect for casual outings or showing off your interest.Check Price and Availability
Funny I Really Like Rabbits T-Shirt
A straightforward, playful tee for those who appreciate these fluffy mammals. Great conversation starter.Check Price and Availability
Rabbit Tote Bag
A whimsical tote bag featuring colorful rabbits, perfect for carrying your field gear or library books.Check Price and Availability
Browse morerabbit-themed t-shirtsand other wildlife gear at Easy Street Markets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rabbits in Massachusetts
**Are there any rabbit species that are endangered in Massachusetts?** Yes, the New England Cottontail is a species of concern and has been declining due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to restore young forest habitats.
**Do rabbits in Massachusetts change color in winter?** Only the Snowshoe Hare turns white in winter. Cottontails stay brown year-round.
**How can I tell a rabbit from a hare?** Hares (like the Snowshoe Hare) are larger, have longer ears and hind legs, and their young are born with fur and open eyes. Rabbits are smaller and give birth to blind, hairless young.
**What is the best time of day to see rabbits in Massachusetts?** Dawn and dusk are prime times, especially in fields and forest edges.
**Where can I report a rabbit sighting for conservation?** You can submit sightings to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions
What Are the Most Common Rabbit Species in Massachusetts?+
You will most likely encounter three rabbit species in Massachusetts. The Eastern Cottontail (*Sylvilagus floridanus*) is the most widespread and often seen in suburban areas. The New England Cottontail (*Sylvilagus transitionalis*) is a native species that prefers young forest habitat. The Snowshoe Hare (*Lepus americanus*) lives in the western parts of the state and turns white in winter. For more on their habitats, check outrabbits in Massachusetts.
How Can You Tell an Eastern Cottontail from a New England Cottontail?+
The easiest way to separate these two is by looking at the tail and ears. Eastern Cottontails have a bright white tail that is very visible when they run, while New England Cottontails have a grayish underside on the tail. Also, Eastern Cottontails often have a black patch between the ears, which New England Cottontails lack. If you spot a rabbit darting across a field with a flashing white tail, it is almost certainly an Eastern Cottontail.
Where and When to Spot Each Type of Rabbit?+
Eastern Cottontails are active year-round and can be seen at dawn and dusk in fields, lawns, and forest edges. New England Cottontails stick to dense thickets and young forests with plenty of cover, making them harder to spot. Snowshoe Hares are found in the higher elevations of western Massachusetts, especially in areas with coniferous forests. Your best odds for seeing any rabbit are during the warmer months when vegetation is abundant. Visit theMassachusetts wildlife hubfor more spotting tips.
What Does the Eastern Cottontail Look Like?+
The Eastern Cottontail is medium-sized, about 15-18 inches long, with reddish-brown fur and a distinctive white fluffy tail. It has large brown eyes and long ears, often with a black tip. Its belly is white, and it has a light-colored ring around the eye. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What Does the New England Cottontail Look Like?+
The New England Cottontail is smaller and darker than the Eastern Cottontail, with a brownish-gray coat and no white tail flash. Its ears are shorter and lack the black tips. A key field mark is the black line on the outer edge of the ears. It also has a white belly but the tail is brownish above.
What Does the Snowshoe Hare Look Like?+
The Snowshoe Hare is larger than the cottontails, with big hind feet that act like snowshoes. In summer it is brown with a white belly, but in winter it turns completely white except for the black ear tips. Its ears are shorter than a jackrabbit's but longer than a cottontail's.
Where Can You Find Snowshoe Hares in Massachusetts?+
Snowshoe Hares in Massachusetts are primarily found in the Berkshire and western hill towns, where coniferous and mixed forests provide cover. They are most active at dawn and dusk, and you can often spot their tracks in the snow during winter. For identification help, check out ourrabbit identification guide.
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