The marsh rabbit 

Marsh rabbits (Sylvialagus palustris) have dark brown coats and white bellies. Their ears are fairly short, but quite broad. Their hind legs are shorter than those of most other species of rabbits. However, they can walk on their hind legs, which is an unusual ability for a rabbit species.

Marsh rabbits flee to water when they are threatened. They run in a zigzag pattern to elude their pursuers. Because of their short legs, they are not quite as agile as other species of rabbits. When they are in water, they float with only their eyes and noses exposed, somewhat like an alligator.

Marsh rabbits eat many types of green vegetation. A few examples are cane, greenbrier, grasses, leaves, and twigs.

Social and reproductive aspects
Marsh rabbits construct large covered nests out of grasses and leaves. They breed several times a year, with each litter consisting of 2 to 5 young.

Signs of presence
The alternating track patterns left by marsh rabbits are similar to those of other species of rabbits. However, when marsh rabbits walk on their hind legs, they leave tracks that are easily distinguished from those of other species of rabbits.

Predators
Red wolves, coyotes, and great horned owls prey upon marsh rabbits.

Lessons and activities
Investigate a scenario involving the marsh rabbit.

References
Special thanks to the National Audubon Society.