Lepus townsendii townsendii

Western White- Tailed Jackrabbit

Family: Leporidae · Class: Mammalia · Order: Lagomorpha

Conservation status: G5T5 S3?

The western white-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus townsendii townsendii) is a large lagomorph native to western North America. Adults typically measure 56 to 65 cm (22 to 26 inches) in total length and weigh 1.4 to 4.3 kg (3 to 9.5 pounds), making it one of the largest North American rabbits. The species exhibits seasonal color variation, with brown to grayish-brown summer pelage that molts to white winter fur in northern populations. The diagnostic white tail remains conspicuous year-round, contrasting with the black-tipped ears that measure 10 to 11 cm (4 to 4.3 inches) in length. Large hind feet, measuring up to 15 cm (6 inches), are adapted for rapid locomotion across open terrain. Historically, western white-tailed jackrabbits ranged throughout much of the western United States, from the Great Plains to the Pacific Coast. In California, the subspecies L. t. townsendii occurred primarily in the northeastern counties, including portions of the Sierra Nevada, Cascade Range, and Great Basin regions. Current distribution appears fragmented compared to historical range, with populations documented in suitable habitat across Lassen, Modoc, and Siskiyou counties. The species inhabits open grasslands, sagebrush steppe, agricultural areas, and mountain meadows at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 meters (4,000 to 10,000 feet). Preferred habitat includes areas with scattered shrub cover for concealment while maintaining visibility across open terrain. During winter, individuals may move to lower elevations or seek areas with reduced snow depth. The species demonstrates adaptability to human-modified landscapes, utilizing rangelands and agricultural fields where suitable forage is available. White-tailed jackrabbits are primarily crepuscular, exhibiting peak activity during dawn and dusk hours. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, forbs, and shrubs, with seasonal variation including sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and various herbaceous plants during winter months. Breeding typically occurs from February through July, with females producing one to four litters annually. Gestation lasts approximately 42 days, with litters containing two to four leverets. Young are born fully furred with eyes open and become independent within four to five weeks. The species exhibits classic "boom and bust" population cycles typical of lagomorphs, with numbers fluctuating dramatically based on environmental conditions and predation pressure. The global conservation status is ranked G5T5, indicating the subspecies is secure overall, though California populations receive a state rank of S3?, suggesting uncertainty about population stability within the state. While not federally or state-listed, California populations face pressure from habitat conversion, fragmentation, and climate change impacts on montane ecosystems. Agricultural development and urbanization have reduced available habitat in portions of the historical range. Winter recreation and associated human disturbance may impact populations in mountainous areas. Ongoing monitoring is needed to assess population trends and habitat requirements for this subspecies at the edge of its range in California.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.