Roomba the Eastern Cottontail

Born: Unknown

Arrived at WSWC: October 27th, 2024

Sex: Female

This pretty lady was raised by people, and after attempting to re-wild her, she was deemed to be non-releasable. Roomba has stolen the hearts of everyone here at the wildlife center because of her lack of fear of humans; however, she is still wild and has wild rabbit instincts and needs. 

When attempting to re-wild Roomba, we saw no signs that she would be able to be released. She showed no fear of humans and definitely no fear of other predators. Our educators are still deciding whether she will be a good candidate for offsite educational programs or if she will serve as an educational ambassador from her home here at the center.

About Eastern Cottontails

  • Size: Eastern Cottontails weigh between 1.8 and 4.4 pounds. Their length, including the small tail, can range from 14 to 19 inches. They have a shoulder height of 7-9 inches.

  • Lifespan: Eastern cottontails typically have a short lifespan in the wild, averaging around 3 years. However, some individuals may live longer, with reports of wild rabbits reaching 5 years. In captivity, they can live for 9 years or even longer.

  • Diet: Eastern cottontails are herbivores and their diet primarily consists of plants. They eat a wide variety of vegetation, including grasses, clover, and other herbaceous plants in the summer. In the winter, they switch to woody plants like twigs, bark, and buds of shrubs and trees.

  • Reproduction: Eastern cottontail rabbits reproduce prolifically, with females capable of producing multiple litters of 3-8 young per year, typically between February and September. The breeding season is influenced by temperature rather than diet, and they can reach sexual maturity as early as 2-3 months old. Gestation lasts about 28-30 days, and females may breed again soon after giving birth.

  • Range: Eastern cottontail rabbits reproduce prolifically, with females capable of producing multiple litters of 3-8 young per year, typically between February and September. The breeding season is influenced by temperature rather than diet, and they can reach sexual maturity as early as 2-3 months old. Gestation lasts about 28-30 days, and females may breed again soon after giving birth.

  • Other Facts: Eastern Cottontails can reach speeds of up to 18 mph and run using a zigzag pattern. Female cottontails create shallow depressions in the ground, lined with grass and fur, for their nests.