Black-tailed Jackrabbit
Lepus californicus

Body length: 17 - 21"
Diet: Green vegetation, including tree leaves

Jackrabbits are large hares with long legs. True to their name, black-tails have black-tipped tails, as well as black tips on their long ears.

Like the kangaroo rat, badger, coachwhip, and zebra-tailed lizard, this species is a creature of the lower desert valley at Tonto National Monument. Although relatively common north of Route 188, few are ever seen in the vicinity of the Visitor Center or cliff dwellings. With their speed (up to 35 mph) and excellent hearing, jackrabbits apparently feel most comfortable in open desert, where they can outrun predators such as hawks and coyotes. In contrast, the smaller cottontail rabbits prefer some cover, and are more likely to hide when a predator is near.