Over the past few months, I’ve been seeing fewer Eastern Cottontail rabbits, which led me down a momentary rabbit hole wondering if this rabbit species hibernates. Then I remembered that rabbits and hares don’t.
Summertime Eastern Cottontail eating grass – Canon R7, handheld, f8, 1/250, ISO 800, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
While many animals slow down or disappear entirely during winter, these hardy rabbits remain active through the colder months. That said, their behavior shifts as temperatures drop.
During harsh weather, they conserve energy by reducing their activity. Eastern Cottontails are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk, and they spend the daylight hours tucked away in cozy shelters like dense vegetation or underbrush.
Winter also brings changes to their diet. The greens they favor during warmer months become scarce, so they adapt by eating woody plants, tree bark, and buds. Eastern Cottontail rabbits don’t dig their own burrows, but they’re resourceful. Abandoned burrows, dense shrubs, and brush piles provide much-needed protection from winter’s chill.
Despite the challenges, these non-hibernating rabbits are a familiar sight in winter landscapes. Whether you’re out at dawn or catching a glimpse of one nibbling on twigs at dusk, their resilience is a reminder of how wildlife adapts to survive each and every season.
Lately, I’ve also been hearing both Barred and Great Horned Owls calling at night, and their presence nearby and in the yard might explain why I’m seeing fewer Eastern Cottontail rabbits. These owls are skilled hunters, often preying on rabbits and other small mammals. The local rabbit population is probably just staying tucked away, likely avoiding the watchful eyes of these nocturnal predators.
And there have also been Coyotes on the prowl lately too.
The Eastern Cottontail rabbits know when to stay hidden.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Eastern Cottontail rabbit photos plus facts and information about this species.
I have been seeing less on Antelope Island. I have always thought with harsher colder weather they just spend more time in burrows only venturing out for short forays for food. I will be down in St George soon, it will be fun to look for them in one of the parks where they thrive.
I would like to hibernate – in summer.