What is the typical lifespan of cottontail rabbits in North America?

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Study for the Michigan Vertebrate Pest Management (Category 7D) Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the typical lifespan of cottontail rabbits in North America?

Explanation:
Wild cottontail rabbits in North America have a short life in the wild due to constant threats from predators, disease, and environmental conditions. They reach sexual maturity quickly and produce many young, so populations persist even with high annual mortality. Because of these factors, the average life expectancy in wild populations is about a year—roughly 12 to 15 months. Some individuals may reach a second year, but living to two or more years is not common in natural conditions. In captivity, rabbits can live several years, but that longer lifespan doesn’t apply to wild cottontails.

Wild cottontail rabbits in North America have a short life in the wild due to constant threats from predators, disease, and environmental conditions. They reach sexual maturity quickly and produce many young, so populations persist even with high annual mortality. Because of these factors, the average life expectancy in wild populations is about a year—roughly 12 to 15 months. Some individuals may reach a second year, but living to two or more years is not common in natural conditions. In captivity, rabbits can live several years, but that longer lifespan doesn’t apply to wild cottontails.

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