They are often one of just a few wild animals recognized by many city children. They are definitely part of nature, so let's learn a bit more about them. Description Eastern cottontail rabbits are easily identified by their cotton-puff tail. They have brown, black, and tan banded hairs which gives a tweedy look to their fur. Most people don't notice the orange patch on the back of their neck.
Cottontails have large ears and large hind feet.
Eating Habits Summer food consists of green grasses, legumes, and various other herbs or forbs. Many city backyards provide these necessities. During winter periods with little snow rabbits eat grasses and other plants. Crops such as goldenrod, chickweed, clover, grass, alalfa, wheat, rye, beans, lettuce and fruits all provide food for rabbits. Some even resort to decayed animal flesh and insect pupa when other food is lacking.