The New England cottontail rabbit is terrestrial, likes to be active alone, good at jumping, and runs quickly. It has a short head, large eyes, gray-brown to reddish-brown body, and white or yellowish underparts.The latter is usually red or black. The upper part of the tail is brown and the lower part of the tail is white.

In summer, the New England Cottontail has a yellow-brown back, dark brown ears, and a The ventral surface is pale gray. During winter, the tips of some individuals turn black or white.