Those interested in wildlife may notice how the cottontail rabbit remains active during the winter. Aubrey Brown with Franklin County Conservation explains.
“Most rabbits live in a 5-acre area their entire lives,” Brown says. “The cottontail rabbit doesn’t dig its own burrows like some other rabbit species do, so they will either find an empty burrow from another animal to crawl into, or they will look for woody vegetation to huddle under during cold weather. In suburban areas, they will also look for covered areas under porches, cars, or by garages that are out of the elements. This explains a lot why you seem to see a lot more tracks or activity in the winter. Since all or most vegetation is out during winter, these rabbits will then seek shelter under your buildings or cars.”
Brown says it’s possible to aid in their search for shelter and food.
“One way you can help the cottontail rabbit out during the winter is make a little brush pile for them in one part of your property. It might look unsightly, but you’re helping the wildlife and there’s no better feeling than that.”
