On a visit to Treasure Shores Park on 8/16/2020, we saw a chunky marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris) on the eastern edge of the parking lot. Marsh rabbits are strong swimmers and are almost always found near water. Sometimes, they use their swimming skills to escape predators.
On 7/21/2018, we saw the other species of rabbit found in Florida, an Eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylviilagus floridanus) in nearly the same spot, as seen below. Check out its large ears, fluffy white tail, and lighter color …
Kai Andrews, wife of Marc Speiss (Class of 2019), noted 3 differences. She described the marsh rabbit as having “mousey” ears, a Roman nose, and no white, fluffy cottontail …
Both rabbits are herbivores, most active from dusk to dawn, and are an important food source for bobcats, owls, bald eagles, and other predators.
Enjoy the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area 