The definitive guide to all lagomorphs—pikas, rabbits, and hares. Numbering 92 species worldwide, members of the order Lagomorpha are familiar to people throughout the world, and yet their remarkable diversity and ecological importance are often underappreciated. In this book, Andrew T. Smith and his colleagues bring together the world’s lagomorph experts to produce the most comprehensive reference on the order ever published, featuring detailed species accounts, stunning color photos, and up-to-date range maps. Contributors highlight the key ecological roles that lagomorphs play and explain in depth how scientists around the globe are working to save vulnerable populations. Thematic introductory chapters cover a broad spectrum of information about pikas, rabbits, and hares, from evolution and systematics to diseases and conservation. Each animal account begins with the complete scientific and common names for the species, followed by a detailed description of appearance and unique morphological characteristics, including a range of standard measurements of adult specimens. Subsequent sections discuss known paleontological data concerning the species, the current state of its taxonomy, and geographic variation. Each account also includes dedicated sectioins on habitat and diet, reproduction and development, ecology, behavior, and management. The definitive work on lagomorphs, this book is an invaluable reference for naturalists, professional biologists, and students. It will also be beneficial for those conducting biodiversity surveys and conservation throughout the world.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat of rabbits and hares, some of which can run at speeds of forty-five miles per hour or more. The world of rabbits and hares is a world of keen senses. Their ears can turn to pick up faraway sounds. Their eyes can watch for enemies in all directions. And their twitching noses have 100 million sensors to pick up scents--six times more than we have!

Rabbits and hares have many similarities, but they have differences that help distinguish them from one another. Hares generally have black-tipped ears that are extra-long. Rabbits have their own unique way of running to escape predators. There are more differences to be discovered in this volume full of beautiful photographs and fact-packed text.

Long floppy ears. Big teeth. Running or hopping. Is it a rabbit or a hare? Learn how these popular and cuddly animals are alike and how they differ.

"Developed by literacy experts for students in kindergarten through grade three, this book introduces rabbits and hares to young readers through leveled text and related photos"--

A beautiful story of a child's journey to independence. Grandpa shows Harris how to hop high into the sky, to climb to the tops of the mountains, and to run very fast. Harris not only learns about the world around him but also the importance of finding his own feet...

From tall ears to fluffy tails, rabbits and hares are easy to confuse. Simple text, matching photos, and side-by-side comparisons help young readers spy the differences between these common animals. Peeking into rabbit burrows and hare nests, this title digs deep into these lookalikes!