Here are some strategies/behaviors that American desert hares could use to survive a period of unusually cold weather:
Seek shelter: Desert hares can seek shelter in rocky outcroppings or burrows to protect themselves from the cold and wind.
Change their behavior: Desert hares are active at night, but during a period of unusually cold weather, they may become more active during the day when the temperature is slightly warmer.
Conserve heat: Desert hares can conserve heat by curling up in a ball and tucking their nose under their tail.
Increase their food intake: During cold weather, hares may need to consume more food to maintain their body temperature. They may need to forage for food during the day or seek out food that is richer in nutrients.
Adapt their fur: Hares may grow thicker fur during cold weather to insulate themselves from the cold.
Huddle together: Desert hares may huddle together to share body heat and keep each other warm.
It's important to note that these strategies may not be foolproof and some hares may not survive extreme weather conditions. However, by using these strategies, hares can increase their chances of survival during a period of unusually cold weather.