7 Types of Rabbits in Wyoming
Wyoming is home to several rabbit species, most commonly the desert cottontail and black-tailed jackrabbit. This guide covers the main types you're likely to encounter, how to tell them apart, and the best spots to see them across the state.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 7, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- June, July, May
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
7 types of rabbits recorded in Wyoming
7 rabbit species have a verified observation record in Wyoming 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.
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6- No openly licensed photo yet7
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
1,396 verified observations on iNaturalist of rabbit have been recorded in Wyoming, most often in June, July, May.
When rabbit are recorded in Wyoming
Wyoming is home to several rabbit species, most commonly the desert cottontail and black-tailed jackrabbit. This guide covers the main types you're likely to encounter, how to tell them apart, and the best spots to see them across the state.
1. What are the most common rabbit species in Wyoming?
Wyoming hosts two main rabbit groups: cottontails and jackrabbits (which are actually hares). The most widespread is the **desert cottontail** (*Sylvilagus audubonii*), found in arid scrublands across the state. You'll also see **mountain cottontails** (*Sylvilagus nuttallii*) in higher elevations, and the **black-tailed jackrabbit** (*Lepus californicus*) dominates the sagebrush plains. The **white-tailed jackrabbit** (*Lepus townsendii*) appears in northern Wyoming and the Bighorn Basin, especially at higher altitudes.
See ourRabbits guidefor the next step.
2. How can you tell apart cottontails from jackrabbits in Wyoming?
Size is your quickest clue. Jackrabbits are larger (up to 24 inches long) with very long ears and powerful hind legs built for speed. Cottontails are smaller (12–15 inches), with shorter ears and a fluffy white tail. In Wyoming, jackrabbits have black ear tips (black-tailed) or all-white tails (white-tailed). Cottontails lack black markings and have a more rounded body. When startled, jackrabbits sprint away at 40+ mph, while cottontails dart for the nearest cover.
3. Where and when are you most likely to see each type of rabbit in Wyoming?
**Desert cottontails** thrive in low-elevation deserts and grasslands around Rock Springs, Rawlins, and the Red Desert. Look for them at dawn and dusk near rabbitbrush and sage. **Mountain cottontails** stick to pine forests and rocky slopes in the Medicine Bow and Bighorn ranges, often active mid-morning. **Black-tailed jackrabbits** are common along roadsides in the southern and central basins, especially after rain when green shoots emerge. **White-tailed jackrabbits** prefer open meadows and alpine tundra above 8,000 feet; your best odds are in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks during summer.
See ourRabbits typesfor the next step.
4. What are the key identification features for Wyoming rabbits?
Focus on ear length and tail color. **Desert cottontail**: ears 3–4 inches, grayish-brown body, white tail. **Mountain cottontail**: slightly smaller, ears 2.5–3 inches, buffy belly. **Black-tailed jackrabbit**: very long ears (6–8 inches) with black tips, black stripe on top of tail. **White-tailed jackrabbit**: white tail (no black), ears with white edges, body turns white in winter. In summer both jackrabbits are brown, but the white-tailed jackrabbit has a distinctive white underside.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Do rabbits in Wyoming change color in winter?
Only the **white-tailed jackrabbit** molts to a white winter coat, perfectly camouflaged against snow. The other Wyoming rabbits (desert cottontail, mountain cottontail, black-tailed jackrabbit) stay brown year-round. If you see a white rabbit in the snow, it's almost certainly a white-tailed jackrabbit, not an albino. In southwest Wyoming, occasional snowshoe hares appear but are rare at lower elevations.
6. What is the rarest rabbit species in Wyoming?
The **pygmy rabbit** (*Brachylagus idahoensis*) is the smallest rabbit in North America and occurs only in the Green River Basin and parts of the Red Desert. It's listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Wyoming. Look for small (11–13 inch) gray rabbits in dense sagebrush stands, especially near Kemmerer and Farson. Their pellets are noticeably smaller than cottontail droppings.
7. What should you bring for a Wyoming rabbit-watching trip?
Good binoculars (8x or 10x) help distinguish cottontails from jackrabbits at a distance. Early morning light is best for spotting rabbits feeding in open areas. A field guide to Wyoming mammals is handy for noting habitat and tracks. If you want to commemorate your sightings, check out therabbit-themed appareland gifts at Easy Street Markets. For a deep dive into all Wyoming wildlife, visit theWyoming wildlife hub.
8. Great gear for rabbit enthusiasts
After a day of spotting rabbits, you might want to bring home something that reminds you of your finds. Here are a few practical and fun items:
Rabbit Tote Bag
A whimsical tote perfect for carrying your field guides and snacks. Durable and colorful, it's a great companion for any wildlife outing.Check Price and Availability
Vintage Rabbit Art Graphic Tee
A comfy, oversized shirt with retro rabbit art. Soft cotton that wears well on cool Wyoming mornings.Check Price and Availability
Funny I Really Like Rabbits T-Shirt
A lighthearted tee that lets everyone know your favorite Wyoming animal. Great for casual wear or as a gift.Check Price and Availability
Bunny T-Shirt
Peaceful Dreams design featuring a serene bunny. A soft, meaningful piece for anyone who appreciates rabbit encounters.Check Price and Availability
9. Frequently asked questions about rabbits in Wyoming
**Are jackrabbits actually rabbits?** No, they're hares. Hares are born with fur and open eyes, while rabbits are born naked and blind. But for identification purposes, they're grouped together.
**Do rabbits live in Yellowstone?** Yes. White-tailed jackrabbits and mountain cottontails are common in Yellowstone's meadows and forests. Look for them near the Lamar Valley and around Mammoth Hot Springs.
**What's the best time of year to see rabbits in Wyoming?** Spring and fall offer the most activity. Mornings (6–9 AM) and evenings (5–8 PM) are prime times. Summer can be hot, so rabbits are less active midday.
**How many species of rabbits are there in Wyoming?** Four main species: desert cottontail, mountain cottontail, black-tailed jackrabbit, and white-tailed jackrabbit. Plus the rare pygmy rabbit.
**Where can I learn more about Wyoming wildlife?** Check out theanimals of Wyomingpage on Easy Street Markets for more field guides and spotting tips.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the most common rabbit species in Wyoming?+
Wyoming hosts two main rabbit groups: cottontails and jackrabbits (which are actually hares). The most widespread is the **desert cottontail** (*Sylvilagus audubonii*), found in arid scrublands across the state. You'll also see **mountain cottontails** (*Sylvilagus nuttallii*) in higher elevations, and the **black-tailed jackrabbit** (*Lepus californicus*) dominates the sagebrush plains. The **white-tailed jackrabbit** (*Lepus townsendii*) appears in northern Wyoming and the Bighorn Basin, especially at higher altitudes. See ourRabbits guidefor the next step.
2. How can you tell apart cottontails from jackrabbits in Wyoming?+
Size is your quickest clue. Jackrabbits are larger (up to 24 inches long) with very long ears and powerful hind legs built for speed. Cottontails are smaller (12–15 inches), with shorter ears and a fluffy white tail. In Wyoming, jackrabbits have black ear tips (black-tailed) or all-white tails (white-tailed). Cottontails lack black markings and have a more rounded body. When startled, jackrabbits sprint away at 40+ mph, while cottontails dart for the nearest cover.
3. Where and when are you most likely to see each type of rabbit in Wyoming?+
**Desert cottontails** thrive in low-elevation deserts and grasslands around Rock Springs, Rawlins, and the Red Desert. Look for them at dawn and dusk near rabbitbrush and sage. **Mountain cottontails** stick to pine forests and rocky slopes in the Medicine Bow and Bighorn ranges, often active mid-morning. **Black-tailed jackrabbits** are common along roadsides in the southern and central basins, especially after rain when green shoots emerge. **White-tailed jackrabbits** prefer open meadows and alpine tundra above 8,000 feet; your best odds are in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks during summer. See ourRabbits typesfor the next step.
4. What are the key identification features for Wyoming rabbits?+
Focus on ear length and tail color. **Desert cottontail**: ears 3–4 inches, grayish-brown body, white tail. **Mountain cottontail**: slightly smaller, ears 2.5–3 inches, buffy belly. **Black-tailed jackrabbit**: very long ears (6–8 inches) with black tips, black stripe on top of tail. **White-tailed jackrabbit**: white tail (no black), ears with white edges, body turns white in winter. In summer both jackrabbits are brown, but the white-tailed jackrabbit has a distinctive white underside. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
5. Do rabbits in Wyoming change color in winter?+
Only the **white-tailed jackrabbit** molts to a white winter coat, perfectly camouflaged against snow. The other Wyoming rabbits (desert cottontail, mountain cottontail, black-tailed jackrabbit) stay brown year-round. If you see a white rabbit in the snow, it's almost certainly a white-tailed jackrabbit, not an albino. In southwest Wyoming, occasional snowshoe hares appear but are rare at lower elevations.
6. What is the rarest rabbit species in Wyoming?+
The **pygmy rabbit** (*Brachylagus idahoensis*) is the smallest rabbit in North America and occurs only in the Green River Basin and parts of the Red Desert. It's listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Wyoming. Look for small (11–13 inch) gray rabbits in dense sagebrush stands, especially near Kemmerer and Farson. Their pellets are noticeably smaller than cottontail droppings.
7. What should you bring for a Wyoming rabbit-watching trip?+
Good binoculars (8x or 10x) help distinguish cottontails from jackrabbits at a distance. Early morning light is best for spotting rabbits feeding in open areas. A field guide to Wyoming mammals is handy for noting habitat and tracks. If you want to commemorate your sightings, check out therabbit-themed appareland gifts at Easy Street Markets. For a deep dive into all Wyoming wildlife, visit theWyoming wildlife hub.
Keep exploring
More places to see rabbit
More wildlife in Wyoming