The diet of S. aquaticus consists of marsh and swamp plants and reeds as well as cultivated plants. The soft green pellets are reingested to maximize the nutrients gained from food. Reproduction During the breeding season, males fight to gain access to females in estrous. Breeding in this species occurs almost year round. After a gestation period of 40 days, between 1 and 6 young are born.
Birth occurs in nests made by the females.
Nest holes for S. aquaticus are on top of the ground and are made of dead vegetation surrounding a fur inner lining. Behavior These cottontails are generally solitary, coming together with conspecifics primarily during the breeding season. Habitat Sylvilagus aquaticus prefer swamp and lowland areas close to water. This species is quite common, but future numbers may be threatened by habitat destruction. They can reach speeds of up to 48 mph.