Ecology and management of cottontail rabbits in Missouri (2014)

Abstract

Cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus floridanus) have long been one of the most popular game species across rural Missouri (Figure 1). Cottontails are also common in urban and suburban areas. They have the capacity to produce several litters of young in a year, which helps cottontail populations grow quickly in areas with suitable habitats. There are two rabbit species in Missouri. The eastern cottontail is most common and is found across the state. The larger swamp rabbit (Sylvilagus aquaticus) lives only in the Bootheel area in the southeastern part of the state. Although many people refer to both as cottontails, they are two distinct species. This publication describes how landowners can create habitat that will attract cottontails to their property.