Leporidae

Leporidae is a family of mammals that includes rabbits and hares. The family is classified within the order Lagomorpha, which also includes the pikas. There are more than 60 species of leporids, divided into 11 genera.

Characteristics

Leporids are small to moderately sized mammals, adapted for rapid movement. They have long hind legs, with four toes on each foot, and shorter fore legs, with five toes each. The fur is most commonly long and soft, with colors ranging from white, through grays, browns, and blacks.

Distribution and habitat

Leporids are found in many parts of the world, except for southern South America, the West Indies, Madagascar, and most islands southeast of Asia. They are most common in North America and Eurasia.

Behavior and ecology

Most leporids are fast runners. Hares are generally larger than rabbits, with longer ears, and have black markings on their fur. Hares have not been domesticated, while some rabbits are domesticated and kept as pets. Leporids are herbivores, and their diet consists of grasses, forbs, and leafy weeds.

Classification

The 11 genera within the family Leporidae are divided into three tribes: Leporini (rabbits and hares), Ochotonini (pikas), and Prolagidae (the extinct Sardinian pika).

See also

• List of leporid species
• Rabbit
• Hare

External links

• Leporidae - information on rabbits and hares

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