Hares, pikas and rabbits (Order Lagomorpha) are small terrestrial mammals that can be found in a diverse range of habitats on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. Lagomorphs have short tails, large ears, eyes that are positioned high on each side of the head, and narrow, slitlike nostriles that they are able to close completely.
Lagomorphs are commonly prey for other species in a community and many of these characteristics have evolved as a means of helping them escape predation. For example, their large ears enable them to hear approaching danger better, and the position of their eyes enables them to have a near 360-degree range of vision.
Lagomorphs are herbivorous, they feed on grass and other plant material. Since the plants they eat are not easily digested, Lagomorphs often expel a wet fecal matter that is ingested again for additional nutrient uptaken and finally expelled as dry fecal pellets.
Classification
Where to See
Worldwide except Antarctica, southern South America, most islands, Australia, Madagascar, and the West Indies. Introduction has spread Lagomorphs into many ranges they were not formerly found.
References
- Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.
- Myers P, Sorin A. 2002. Order Lagomorpha. Animal Diversity Web. November 28, 2008.
