When you think of rabbits, the word adorable comes to mind. With their little fur, twitchy noses, and little hopes across your grass, they are certainly cute.

But in Maine, there is much more than meets the eye with our bunny situation. And yes, there is a bunny situation right now.

According to wildlife officials, two very similar looking rabbits are now on two very different paths: one is growing and one is struggling, according to News Center Maine.

The New England cottontail is Maine’s only native rabbit, and apparently this guy is in some trouble.

Experts are guessing that there are only about 400 left in the entire state. These rabbits rely on thick, brushy habitats to survive, something that has been disappearing for decades.

Are Native Rabbits in Trouble in Maine?

Meanwhile, the Eastern cottontail is on the rise.

They came to New England long ago and it only reached Maine within the last decade. However, it's spreading, fast. Especially in areas like Portland, as per the report.

But the shocking part is that this is not about disease or predators, it's about how well they can adapt.

The Eastern cottontail can thrive really anywhere! From forests to backyards, even under decks and porches. The ability to do that gives them a major advantage over their more sensitive native cousins.

And that’s where this concern comes in.

In other states, eastern cottontails have slowly replaced New England cottontails altogether.