Rabbits frequently seek shelter beneath decks, attracted by the secure, dark, and dry environment that offers protection from predators and the weather. This often leads to unwanted digging, potential damage to the deck’s structure, and increased rabbit droppings near the home. Swift, humane action is necessary to encourage these wild tenants to vacate the area before they establish a permanent den or begin raising young.
Humane Methods for Encouraging Eviction
The initial step in managing rabbits under a deck is to safely prompt their departure without causing harm. Before exclusion, confirm the space is clear of rabbits, especially during spring and summer when nesting is common. Disturbing a nest with young (kits) can leave them vulnerable, so exclusion should be avoided until they are old enough to leave the nest on their own.
A practical method for eviction is to make the sheltered space unattractive and uncomfortable. Rabbits are sensitive to noise and unfamiliar scents. Placing a battery-operated radio tuned to a talk station or a bright, motion-activated light near the entry point can be an effective deterrent. Strong odors also work well, including predator urine sprays, cayenne pepper, or rags soaked in ammonia or vinegar placed near the entrance.
After deterrents have been in place for a few days, confirm the rabbits have moved on before sealing the area. A reliable method involves spreading a thin layer of flour directly in front of the suspected entry points. If the flour remains undisturbed for a full night and day, it indicates the animals are no longer using that route to access the space beneath the deck.
Essential Steps for Physical Exclusion
After confirming the area is empty, the permanent solution involves physically blocking all access points. This requires durable materials and specific construction techniques to ensure rabbits cannot dig their way back into the space. Exclusion must only proceed when the area is verified as vacant to prevent trapping any animals inside.
The preferred material for this barrier is hardware cloth, a strong, woven or welded wire mesh. This is superior to lighter chicken wire that rabbits can easily chew through or bend. The mesh size should be small (ideally 1/2 inch or 1/4 inch) to prevent young rabbits from squeezing through. The material should also be galvanized or rust-resistant to withstand continuous exposure to soil and moisture.
To stop rabbits from digging under the barrier, the mesh must be installed using an L-shaped footer technique. This involves burying the hardware cloth 6 to 12 inches vertically into the ground. Then, bend the bottom 6 to 12 inches outward in a 90-degree angle away from the deck. This horizontal section discourages burrowing animals, as they encounter the barrier when attempting to dig at the perimeter.
The upper edge of the hardware cloth needs to be securely fastened directly to the deck’s skirting or framing using heavy-duty staples or screws. Ensure there are no gaps between the top of the mesh and the deck structure, as rabbits can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. The complete barrier must extend around the entire perimeter of the deck, including spaces around posts or steps, to achieve long-term exclusion.
Ongoing Prevention and Wildlife Safety
Maintaining a landscape less appealing to rabbits prevents future residency under the deck. Rabbits are primarily attracted to the deck for shelter and nearby food sources. Removing potential hiding spots, such as dense brush piles, low-hanging shrubs, and wood stacks near the deck perimeter, eliminates the cover they rely on.
Securing garden areas and eliminating accessible food reduces the incentive for rabbits to remain on the property. This involves picking up dropped fruits or vegetables and ensuring pet food bowls are not left outside, as these items are significant attractants. Planting strongly scented herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or lavender, strategically near vulnerable areas provides a natural deterrent.
A primary consideration during any removal process is the ethical need to check for nests and young. Before starting exclusion work, look for matted fur or depressions in the ground under the deck that indicate a nest. If a nest is present, delay the exclusion project until the young are mobile enough to leave with the mother, which usually takes only a few weeks.
If the rabbit presence is persistent or the exclusion work seems overwhelming, consult a local professional wildlife control expert. These specialists ensure that all local ordinances regarding wildlife trapping or relocation are followed, as regulations vary widely by municipality. They are equipped to handle removal safely, especially since rabbits can carry parasites and diseases that inexperienced individuals should avoid handling.