Also known as: California jackrabbit
The black-tailed jackrabbit is a large, long-eared rabbit of the open grasslands and desert scrub of the West, with dark buff fur mixed with black and black-tipped ears nearly as long as its hind feet. It relies on speed and high visibility in open terrain to detect predators, and can live up to eight years in the wild.
Habitat & Range
Occupies brushlands, prairies, and meadows, frequently linked to livestock-grazed pastures. Unlike species needing dense cover, they rely on high visibility in open pasturelands. Common throughout most of the western United States and in Texas except for the far eastern portions.
Life History
Black-tailed jackrabbits rest during the day in scratched-out ground hollows and are generally most active at dusk and throughout the night. They are strict vegetarians, eating clover, alfalfa, and other greens in spring/summer and woody vegetation and dried plants in fall/winter. They use speed to escape predators and flash the white underside of their tail to alert others. Mating occurs year-round with one to four litters annually and one to eight young per litter. Young are born bright-eyed and active, becoming independent after about one month.
Status, Trends & Threats
No explicit conservation concerns noted. The species is common throughout most of the western United States and Texas. Natural predators include hawks, coyotes, and badgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can black-tailed jackrabbits be hunted year-round in Texas?
Yes, jackrabbits are classified as nongame animals in Texas and may be hunted year-round with no bag limits. A valid Texas hunting license is required, but no special permits or stamps are needed.
Where is the best place to hunt black-tailed jackrabbits in Texas?
Black-tailed jackrabbits are common throughout most of Texas except the far eastern portions. They are most abundant in the western two-thirds of the state, particularly in open grasslands, prairies, brushlands, and livestock-grazed pastures where they can spot predators from a distance.
How is the black-tailed jackrabbit different from a cottontail rabbit?
Jackrabbits are actually hares, not true rabbits. Black-tailed jackrabbits are larger with much longer ears (black-tipped), longer legs, and are born with fur and open eyes (precocial), unlike cottontails which are born hairless and blind. Jackrabbits rely on speed and open terrain for defense, while cottontails use cover and burrows.
