What are Rabbits?

Rabbits are small mammals that belong to the family Leporidae. They are known for their long ears, soft fur, and hopping gait. Rabbits are found all over the world, except for Antarctica. They are herbivorous and primarily eat grasses, herbs, and other vegetation.

Rabbits are well-known for their ability to reproduce quickly. They have a short gestation period of about one month and can produce multiple litters per year. Baby rabbits, also known as kits or bunnies, are born blind and hairless but grow quickly and are weaned within a few weeks.

Rabbits have been domesticated for thousands of years and are often kept as pets. They are also used for their meat and fur in some cultures. In the wild, rabbits are an important source of food for many predators, including foxes, coyotes, and birds of prey.

What Attracts Rabbits to your Garden?

There are several factors that can attract rabbits to gardens:

1. Food sources: Rabbits are attracted to gardens that have an abundance of food sources, such as tender plants and vegetables.

2. Shelter: Rabbits need shelter and hiding places to feel secure. Gardens with areas of dense vegetation or brush piles can provide hiding places for rabbits.

3. Water: Rabbits need access to water to survive, so gardens with a water source, such as a pond or stream, can attract rabbits.

4. Lack of predators: Rabbits are more likely to be attracted to gardens with no predators, such as dogs or cats, that may threaten them.

5. Easy access: Rabbits prefer areas that are easy to access and that provide cover. Gardens with low fencing or that are surrounded by open areas may be particularly attractive to rabbits.

It's important to note that not all gardens will be attractive to rabbits, and different rabbits may have different preferences. Additionally, even if a garden is not particularly attractive to rabbits, they may still enter the area if they search for food or water.

Plants that Repel Rabbits

Rabbits can be a major nuisance for gardeners because they are voracious feeders that can cause extensive damage to vegetable gardens and all types of ornamental plants, shrubs, and flowers. Their feeding behavior can result in significant financial and time investments for gardeners, who may have to replant or repair damage caused by rabbits.

If you have a rabbit problem in your garden, here is a list of annual flowers, perennials, and shrubs that will repel rabbits.