Lagomorphs represent a simple prey to a wide variety of mammalian and avian predators. High death rates are counteracted by high a reproductive capacity in most species. Gestation periods are short, 30-40 days, and litter size is large. In females, eggs are shed from ovaries in response to copulation rather than on a cyclic basis. A female is able to conceive immediately after birth.
Females are also able to reabsorb embryos under adverse conditions.
Because of the high reproductive ability and high predation, some hare and rabbit species show cycles of population fluctuations. The Snowshoe hare is a good example of this cyclic phenomenon. All rabbits and hare are adapted for quick movement and fast exit from danger. Hind legs are strong. Ears are large and mobile to detect predators movements.