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Snowshoe Hare, Lepus americanus

Massachusetts, USA Bruce Museum Collection 4993

The snowshoe hare gains its name from its large feet, which help prevent it from sinking into snow. This species provides a classic example of seasonal camouflage, moulting from brown fur to white fur as the winter approaches. This specimen was taken in mid-moult. Althuogh often considered an Arctic animal, the snowshoe hair ranges into Connecticut.

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