What Is the Marsh Rabbit in the Everglades
The marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris) is a small, dark-brown rabbit native to coastal and wetland regions of the southeastern United States. In the Everglades, it inhabits marshes, sloughs, and mangrove swamps, where it relies on dense vegetation for cover and food. It is well adapted to wet environments and is often active at dawn and dusk.
Habitat and Diet of the Everglades Marsh Rabbit
Marsh rabbits in the Everglades occupy freshwater marshes, cypress swamps, and coastal prairies. They feed primarily on grasses, sedges, and aquatic plants, and they use tunnels through dense vegetation to move safely. Their dependence on intact wetland habitats makes them sensitive to changes in water levels and vegetation structure.
Conservation Status and Threats
The marsh rabbit is not currently listed as federally endangered, but local populations face threats from habitat loss, water management practices, and predation by introduced species. Conservation efforts in the Everglades focus on restoring natural water flow and preserving wetland vegetation. For more information on Everglades wildlife, visit https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/nature/wildlife.htm.
