Rabbit and the Hare

In English there are some similar animals with different names. Often in Japanese they have the same name.

For example the rabbit and the hare. The hare is usually larger and has very powerful back legs. Also, the hare’s ears are usually larger than the rabbit’s ears.

Turtle and tortoise are another example. Generally, a tortoise lives only on land and a turtle lives in and near lakes and streams. Often the tortoise lives in a desert and their shell is very round. Turtle shells are usually flatter so they can move fast in the water.

Also crocodiles and alligators are very similar. The crocodile is usually larger, but the alligator has a very strong, square jaw.

Have you ever seen a rabbit? How about a hare? Have you seen a turtle? How about a tortoise? Have you seen alligators or crocodiles?