Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus)
Rabbit ears are not just for hearing. They also play a crucial role in regulating body temperature. The large surface area of their ears contains an extensive network of blood vessels as is visible here. When the rabbit gets warm, these vessels dilate, allowing more blood to flow through them, which helps dissipate heat. Reversely, when the rabbit is cool, the vessels contract to conserve body heat.
Temps were 94 degrees of Fahrenheit (34 C) at the time of the photo.
Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus)
Rabbit ears are not just for hearing. They also play a crucial role in regulating body temperature. The large surface area of their ears contains an extensive network of blood vessels as is visible here. When the rabbit gets warm, these vessels dilate, allowing more blood to flow through them, which helps dissipate heat. Reversely, when the rabbit is cool, the vessels contract to conserve body heat.
Temps were 94 degrees of Fahrenheit (34 C) at the time of the photo.