A rabbit infestation in your yard occurs when rabbit populations grow to a level that causes noticeable damage to your landscaping, garden, or other vegetation. These animals, often perceived as harmless, can quickly become a nuisance due to their rapid reproductive rates, with female rabbits producing multiple litters of four to eight young per breeding season, typically from mid-February to late summer. This unchecked population growth, especially in suburban or urban environments with fewer natural predators, can lead to significant destruction of plants, crops, and even young trees.
Recognizing a Rabbit Infestation
Identifying a rabbit infestation involves observing specific indicators. A clear sign is distinct damage to plants, characterized by clean, angled cuts on stems and leaves. Rabbits also gnaw on the bark of young trees and shrubs, creating rings around the base that can inhibit growth or kill the plant. This damage is found a few inches above the ground, with gnaw marks irregular and about 1/3 to 3/8 inch wide.
Beyond plant damage, rabbit droppings are a clear sign. These are small, round, brown pellets, roughly 1 cm in size, often found in piles where rabbits graze. The texture of these droppings can resemble sawdust, especially if their diet includes tree bark.
Another indicator is burrows, which are underground tunnel systems. While some common rabbit species, like the cottontail, primarily create shallow nests called “forms” in tall grass, they may also inhabit existing burrows or dig their own, typically 10-15 cm in diameter. These burrows are often located on slopes or banks and may have droppings and fur at the entrance. You might also spot rabbit tracks, particularly in soft soil or snow, or even see the rabbits themselves foraging in your yard during early morning or evening hours.
Preventing Rabbit Infestations
Proactive measures effectively deter rabbits and prevent infestations. Fencing is an effective method for protecting gardens and plants. A sturdy fence made of chicken wire or hardware cloth with openings no larger than one inch is recommended. It should stand at least two to three feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. For effectiveness, the fence should extend at least six inches underground and be bent outwards at a 90-degree angle, buried facing away from the protected area, to prevent burrowing underneath.
Modifying the habitat around your home can also make your yard less appealing to rabbits. Regularly removing brush piles, tall grasses, weeds, and other debris eliminates potential hiding spots and nesting sites. Sealing entry points under structures like decks, sheds, or porches can prevent rabbits from establishing sheltered areas. Some plants are less attractive to rabbits, such as lavender or marigolds; incorporating these into your landscaping can deter them from feeding on more vulnerable plants. Commercial repellents can also be applied to plants to make them unpalatable, though these need regular reapplication, especially after rain, and should not be used on edible plants unless specified on the label.
Managing Existing Rabbit Infestations
When a rabbit infestation is present, various strategies can help manage the problem. Humane trapping methods, such as live traps, can be effective in reducing rabbit populations, particularly during colder months when food sources are scarcer. These traps, typically 22-30 inches in length, can be baited with fresh vegetables like carrots, apples, or leafy alfalfa and placed in areas of high rabbit activity, such as along fence lines or near hedges. Before trapping, check local wildlife regulations regarding live trapping and relocation, as rules vary by state and county. If relocation is permitted, trapped rabbits should be moved a significant distance away, though released animals may attempt to return home or struggle to survive in unfamiliar territories.
Exclusion techniques can also block access to specific areas or plants. This involves using barriers like wire mesh cylinders around young trees and shrubs to protect their bark from gnawing. These cylinders should be at least 24 inches high and braced away from the trunk to prevent rabbits from reaching the bark.
Commercial repellents can also be used by applying them to affected plants. These repellents work by creating an unpleasant taste or odor, discouraging rabbits from feeding. For persistent or widespread infestations where DIY methods are insufficient, consulting a professional pest control service may be necessary to implement more comprehensive solutions.