The Lower Keys Marsh Rabbit, Sylvilagus palustris hefneri, is the smallest of the three subspecies of marsh rabbits, reaching only 14 to 16 inches long. They have a brown back, gray belly, small ears, and a grayish-brown tail. Look for them in tall grass in wetlands and salt marshes. The sedge and grass provide the perfect habitat for feeding, nesting, and shelter.
Rabbits reproduce quickly and their population tends to prosper in the right environment. On average, a rabbit will produce 6-7 litters per year. Litters of 2-4 young are born blind and remain with their eyes closed until the fourth or fifth day after birth. They become independent after two weeks and will find their own home ranges at 8 months. The average life span is 1 year although they can live to 4 years of age.
Lower Keys Marsh Rabbits are endemic to The Florida Keys. They currently inhabit the coast from Big Pine Key to Boca Chica Key and occupy several smaller islands in the refuge’s backcountry. However, habitat destruction and degradation due to human development in the Florida Keys has deprived lower marsh rabbits of 50% of their habitat. Sea-level rise, invasive vegetation, and domestic and feral cats are also a threat to this species. Lower Keys Marsh MarshRabbits were listed as federally endangered in 1990 and are designated Endangered by the state of Florida.
When in the Keys advocate for habitat restoration. Leave nothing but footprints.
References:
Florida Natural Areas Inventory “Lower Keys Rabbit” Field guide to the rare animals of
“Lower Keys Rabbit” Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, October 01, 2021
Photo credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service