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Rabbits

Rabbits

​​​​​​​​The Eastern Cottontail rabbits are native species to Canada and were traditionally found in or near wooded areas and meadows; however, they have had to adapt significantly to urbanization. Now you will see these rabbits in city parks, golf courses and residential yards. Here today, gone tomorrow is one way to describe rabbits in the city. Given the many predators that enjoy rabbits as prey, their populations can rise and fall dramatically over the course of a year. Residents can have very mixed opinions of rabbits due to their playful nature and their need to eat vegetation, such as a resident’s garden. In this page, you will find facts and resources to learn more about rabbits, how to modify your yards to keep uninvited rabbits out and how to protect your property when in conflict.​​

  • A well-constructed fence is the most effective way to protect plants. A two-foot-high wire supported by posts every 6 to 8 feet. Stake the bottom securely to the ground to prevent the rabbits from pushing underneath.
  • New plantings can be protected individually under plastic jugs that have the bottom cut out. Additionally serving as mini greenhouses in the spring.
  • Young trees and saplings are vulnerable, so commercial tree wrap, or plastic tree guards, can keep rabbits from nibbling bark.
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  • Taste-based repellents containing capsaicin or garlic
  • Commercial product such as Critter Ridder
  • Natural garden fertilizer such as Blood meal
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  • Motion sensor water sprayer or wind burst
  • Pinwheels

​Remove their protective cover (vine thickets, tall grass, and shrub cover) around gardens and backyards so rabbits don't have escape cover. They will spend less time and eat less food where they feel unsafe.