White-sided jackrabbit

Scientific name: Lepus callotis

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

This species is distinguished by prominent white patches on the flanks and rump, a black stripe down the back, and very large ears with dark brown tips. Adults are pale gray-brown dorsally with a buffy underside; males are slightly smaller and more slender than females.

Size and weight

Body length 40–53 cm; weight 1.5–2.5 kg, with males averaging 1.6–1.9 kg and females 1.8–2.3 kg.

Habitat

White-sided jackrabbits inhabit arid and semi-arid scrublands, desert grasslands, and creosote bush flats, typically at elevations between 600–2,400 m. They prefer areas with sparse vegetation and hard-packed or sandy soil that allows for rapid escape routes.

Distribution

Range includes southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico (Sonora and Chihuahua). They favour open desert flats and bajadas with creosote and bursage interspersed with open ground.

Diet

White-sided jackrabbits graze on desert grasses and browse forbs, cacti, and shrub leaves; during drought they shift toward more succulent plants and woody vegetation.

Behaviour

Primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, feeding most actively in early morning and late evening. They are solitary or occur in loose aggregations; when disturbed, they execute rapid zigzag bounds at speeds up to 55 km/h and often circle back to cover.

Hunting tips

Glass open flats at dawn or dusk when animals feed; look for tracks and small round droppings in sandy areas and near active feeding zones. Approach from downwind using low vegetation or washes for cover, then move slowly at dawn to intercept feeding animals. Set up on higher ground overlooking open basins to spot movement, or work edges between dense brush and open ground where rabbits stage before feeding.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 1 country in Huntify.

Mexico

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.