WHO’S HOPPING DOWN THE BUNNY TRAIL?

Michelle Lancaster, Education Coordinator, Osoyoos Desert Society

Nuttall’s Cottontail
One bunny that’s a favourite sight at the Desert Centre is the Nuttall’s cottontail. With its big brown eyes, grey-brown coat and fluffy white pom-pom tail, how could it not be? Usually no more than one foot in length, it’s the smallest of the ’bunnies’ in BC. Because of its size, coloration, and the need to hide from a large variety of predators, the Nuttall’s can be difficult to spot. On your next hike or walk try looking for movement under sage and antelope brush to see if you can spot one!

Snowshoe Hare
Snowshoe hares are also found in BC. They are slightly larger than cottontails, have longer ears and large hind feet. The snowshoe hare’s feet are large and lined with thick fur to allow them to travel across deep snow in the winter. In spring, the snowshoe hare loses its bright white coat and turns brown to better blend in to its summer surroundings. Look for snowshoe hares in forested areas in the uplands of the Okanagan, especially hiding in thick undergrowth.