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Pygmy Rabbits dig extensive burrow systems, which are also used by other animals. Loss of habitat is a direct threat to this species, which depends on big sagebrush, particularly mature stands of it. Both birds and mammals prey on pygmy Rabbits, which are an important food for many of the other animals in its range. The rabbit's habitat has become increasingly fragmented by development, agriculture, rangeland "improvements"—for example, projects that replace big sagebrush with bunchgrasses—and by fire. There is reason to be concerned about the future of this smallest North American member of the rabbit family.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Females are larger than males.
Length:
Average:
275 mm males; 283 mm females
Range:
252-285 mm males; 230-302 mm females
Weight:
Average:
411 g males; 432 g females
Range:
373-435 g males; 415-458 g females
References:
Merriam, C.H., 1891. Results of a biological reconnaissance of south-central Idaho, p. 76. North American Fauna, 5:1-416.
Links:
Mammal Species of the World
Click here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account
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