What Are Lagomorphs?

Lagomorphs, encompassing rabbits, hares, and pikas, are small mammals recognized for their distinctive floppy ears, short fluffy tails, and remarkable jumping capabilities. Beyond their charming appearance and agile movements, these animals are vital to ecosystems worldwide, serving as prey for numerous predators and thriving in diverse environments.

Two Primary Families of Lagomorphs

The order Lagomorpha consists of two main families: Ochotonidae (pikas) and Leporidae (hares and rabbits).

Pikas are small, rodent-like creatures with short limbs and rounded ears, giving them a compact, oval-shaped silhouette when crouched. They thrive in cold, mountainous regions across Asia, North America, and Europe, favoring rocky … Continue

Rabbits And Hares

This is a beautiful shot of a Snowshoe Hare (Lepus americanus) captured on one of the trails at the Memorial University of Newfoundland Botanical Garden in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.The hare is in its summer coat: a rich mottled brown with hints of gray and russet, perfectly blended into the mossy forest floor. Its large hind foot is just visible, black-tipped ears are laid back, and that big, dark eye peers directly through the fence with a mix of curiosity and wariness.Dappled sunlight filters through the trees, lighting up the lush green ferns and undergrowth typical of Newfoundland’s Continue

Pikas

By: David Torres

Pikas are a small, short-legged and tailless mammals that can be found in the mountains of western North America and in much of the steppes of Asia and eastern Europe. Despite their small size, body shape, and round ears, pikas are not rodents but are actually closest related to hares and rabbits.

What does a pika look like?

Pikas are small mammals, with short limbs and rounded ears. They are about 15 to 23 centimeters (5.9 to 9.1 in) in body length and weigh between 120 and 350 grams (4.2 and 12.3 oz), depending on species. Pikas … Continue