[Animals] Of rabbits and hares: these are the main differences between both animals

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Despite the morphological similarities, rabbits and hares have important differences in their gestation, their behavior and their way of living
Rabbits and hares are two species that share several similarities. Both belong to the same family and share a similar morphology. However, there are important differences that must be taken into account when getting to know these animals better.

First of all, it must be said that rabbits and hares belong to the Leporidae family. That is, they are lagomorphic mammals. Rabbits, po[CENSORED]rly speaking, are known as a symbol of fertility. For this reason, they are also associated with Easter, the time of year when nature proliferates. Hares, on the other hand, have been associated with regeneration since ancient Egypt and, similarly, with fertility.

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Both symbolically and biologically, rabbits and hares share characteristics; their similarities make their meanings go hand in hand. Despite this, the differences are not a minor matter. The set of these manage to impose a clear distinction between both animals.

What are the differences between rabbits and hares?
The doctor and researcher from the Natural Resources Laboratory of the Biology, Technology and Prototypes Unit (UBIPRO) tells the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), that the two species are morphologically very similar. For example, these animals have long legs and ears, however, a first distinctive comes here: hares have even longer legs.

The way in which hares mate is very peculiar. It consists of a ritual in which the female is chased by the male. This tests the candidate who, if he reaches her, will manage to mate. It should be noted that this act highlights one of the characteristics that makes hares different from rabbits, that is, their ability to move faster.

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FOLLOWING THIS CYCLE, GESTATION IS ANOTHER FACTOR. THIS PROCESS TAKES 42 DAYS IN THE HARE. IN RABBITS, 30 IS TAKEN. CONSEQUENTLY, THERE ARE IMPORTANT VARIABLES BETWEEN THE OFFSPRING OF BOTH SPECIES.

Newly born hares, also known as lebratos, are recognized by the physical development with which they are given birth. Lebratos, from their first moments outside the mother, are capable of running and feeding themselves. In addition, these animals are born with hair and open eyes. Rabbits have a slower development. They are born hairless and with their eyes closed. They also cannot walk or regulate their own temperature.

Similar but not the same
The behaviors of these animals are not the same. Rabbits are beings much more likely to live in groups. Hares are more solitary animals. Their living spaces are also different; hares opt for small mounds of earth, rabbits for their burrows.

Hares are more of open spaces. When faced with predators, these animals rely on their speed to escape. Rabbits, on the other hand, faced with these dangers that threaten their survival, tend to take refuge in their burrows.

Despite these differences, rabbits and hares are herbivorous animals. They feed on young shoots of grass, seeds and fruits. Some even dig up roots or tubers. Hence the po[CENSORED]r image of the rabbit feeding on a carrot. Besides, these animals also often use the bark of trees for their consumption.

Both species are threatened by the progressive loss of their habitat. According to UNAM, 15 different species of leporids live in Mexico. Of that total, 8 are endemic. Needless to say, according to the same source, the hunting of wild rabbits and hares is prohibited in Mexico.

https://www.ngenespanol.com/animales/que-diferencias-hay-entre-conejos-y-liebres/