Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Sylvilagus

Sylvilagus

9.9
A group of rabbits found in North and Central America that includes cottontails
  • noun
  • /sɪlˈvɪlɪɡəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Sylvilagus
  • Rabbits of the genus Sylvilagus are characterized by their distinctive cotton-like tails.

Examples

  • The eastern cottontail, a species of Sylvilagus, is common in suburban backyards.

  • Unlike hares, members of the genus Sylvilagus typically have smaller bodies and shorter legs.

  • Many wildlife biologists study Sylvilagus populations to monitor ecosystem health.

  • The Sylvilagus is known for its long ears.

  • Many species of Sylvilagus inhabit the grasslands.

  • Many wildlife biologists study Sylvilagus populations to monitor ecosystem health.

  • The eastern cottontail is a well-known species of Sylvilagus found in many areas.

Synonyms

genus Sylvilagus
vsSylvilagus
  • Specialized
8.8

A group of North American rabbits called cottontails

is found in both North and Central America, so has a broader range

Compounds

genus Sylvilagus
  • Specialized
8.8

A group of North American rabbits called cottontails

Sylvilagus floridanus
  • Specialized
9.9

A common rabbit with a white tail that lives in eastern parts of the United States

Sylvilagus palustris
  • Specialized
9.9

A small rabbit that lives in marshes along the southeastern United States coast

Surface Forms

Sylvilagus singular
Sylvilaguses plural

Etymology

The word Sylvilagus comes from Latin silva meaning 'wood' and Greek lagos meaning 'hare'. Think of the English word sylvan ('wooded') and the animal 'hare' — so Sylvilagus is a 'wood hare', a name for the group of cottontail rabbits often found in woods and fields.