Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) You'll probably see a few cottontails along the Wildlife Loop on the refuge (map) where this photo was taken. Eastern cottontails are found in the central and eastern states, usually south of New York. The eastern cottontail can be distinguished by the white on the underside of its tail, its rust-tinted nape, the white fur mixed in on the top of its feet, its long ears, and black forehead. Cottontails mate from late winter to early fall and produce up to four litters of as many as nine young (gestation, about one month). They build nests of plants and fur in dips in the ground and cover them with plants. They feed on a variety of plants.

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