Sisetakseid

Sisetakseid, also known as the "snowshoe hare" or "woodchuck," is a medium-sized rodent native to North America. It is characterized by its large hind feet, which are adapted for digging and moving through deep snow. The sisetakseid has a dense, furry coat that varies in color from gray to brown, with a lighter underside. It has a long, bushy tail that is typically black at the tip.

The sisetakseid is a herbivore, feeding primarily on twigs, leaves, and bark from trees and shrubs. It is an important prey species for various predators, including birds of prey, foxes, and coyotes. The sisetakseid is known for its population cycles, which can vary from 3 to 10 years. During peak years, the population can reach very high numbers, while in low years, the population can decline significantly.

The sisetakseid is a solitary animal, except during the breeding season. Breeding occurs in late winter or early spring, and the female gives birth to a litter of 2 to 6 kits in a burrow. The kits are born blind and hairless, and they remain in the burrow for about 28 days before emerging.

The sisetakseid is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and tundra. It is a species of conservation concern in some areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring suitable habitats, as well as monitoring population trends.