Rabbit

Recognize the visitor

Eastern cottontails are common around Indiana gardens. Look for clean, angled clipping on tender stems, pea-sized round droppings, tracks with larger hind feet ahead of smaller forefeet, and browsing concentrated near cover.

Protect plants

Start with exclusion. Surround vulnerable beds with small-mesh wire fencing about 2 feet high, secure the bottom to the ground, and protect young trunks with guards tall enough to remain effective above snow. Remove brush piles and dense weeds immediately beside valued plants while retaining habitat elsewhere where practical.

Use an integrated response

Confirm the animal before acting. Combine barriers, plant selection, and habitat adjustments; reassess after weather, growth, or snowfall changes access. Follow all product labels and local wildlife rules. Avoid poisons where children, pets, or non-target wildlife may encounter them.

Sources

• Purdue Extension — Animal Damage Management
• Indiana DNR — Eastern Cottontail