🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 81 (from laksa139)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa081.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311","crawl_time":1776050679,"first_indexed_time":1488721170,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,thespruce!www,\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311 s443","src_root_hash":"6913343299420803281","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Keep Rabbits Out of Garden With or Without Fences","meta_descriptions":["Rabbits can damage gardens and lawns. Here are three good ways to keep rabbits away, plus some tips for long-term control."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Removing rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage\nrabbit damage\nis by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants.\nCredit:\nThe Spruce \/ Madelyn Goodnight\nWhat Do Rabbits Look Like?\nThe most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail (\nSylvilagus floridanus\n). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals.\nIt does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat.\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\nSigns of Rabbit Infestation\nYou might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as:\nSmall piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents)\nGnawed or stripped tree trunks\nRabbit fur near burrow entrances\nPlants grazed to the ground\n6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits\nExperiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors\nThe easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following:\nTalcum powder\nVinegar\nAmmonia\nMothballs\nChili pepper\nGarlic\nGinger\nCitrus peels\nDried sulfur\nIrish Spring\nsoap shavings\nWarning\nKeep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following:\nPlace small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell.\nSpray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants.\nSoap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard.\nPlant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs\nJust like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many\nrabbit-deterrent plants\nand\nflowers\nbut consider growing these herbs for starters:\nRosemary\nMint\/catmint\nLavender\nBee balm\nThyme\nYarrow\nSage\nAlliums\/chives\nInstall Garden Fencing\nFor immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden.\nChicken wire\nwith 1\/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control.\nProtect Individual Plants\nUse 1\/4- to 1\/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around\nnew trees, shrubs, or vines\n. Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble.\nModify the Habitat\nIf you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings.\nApply Repellents\nChemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use.\nTip\nOne type of\ndeer repellent\nmay work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate.\nDeter With Predators\nIn areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a\nfenced-in\nyard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds.\nTrap as a Last Effort\nLive trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits.\nWhat Attracts Rabbits to Gardens?\nRabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in\nvegetable gardens\nand on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas;\nherbs\nsuch as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees.\nThere are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil.\nHow to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently\nDefense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires:\nRegularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier\nInspecting plants weekly for damage\nWatching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc.\nActing as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits\nWhen to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation\nYou may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services.\nFAQ\nCommon signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1\/4 inch to 1\/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush.\nNo, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants.\nRabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals.\nRabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#skip-to-content)\n\n[Visit The Spruce's homepage](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/)\n\n[Newsletters](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n\nPlease fill out this field.\n\n- [Decor](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/home-design-and-decorating-4127998)\n  Decor\n  \n  - [Room Design](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/room-design-and-decorating-4127972)\n  - [Decorating](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/interior-decorating-4127997)\n  - [Design Styles](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/home-design-styles-4127996)\n  - [Small Spaces](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/small-spaces-4127932)\n  - [Feng Shui](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/feng-shui-4127926)\n- [Garden](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/gardening-4127780)\n  Garden\n  \n  - 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[Product Testing](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/commerce-guidelines-and-mission-4157991)\n  - [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/sweepstakes)\n  - [Gardening Review Board](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/the-spruce-gardening-and-plant-care-review-board-4777222)\n  - [Home Improvement Review Board](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/the-spruce-home-improvement-review-board-4777230)\n  - [Cleaning Review Board](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/the-spruce-cleaning-review-board-5211979)\n  - [See All](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800)\n\n- Top Stories\n- [Why You Should Try an Irish Moss Lawn](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/irish-moss-lawn-11935277)\n- [8 Fast-Growing Grass Seeds](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/fast-growing-grass-seeds-11935187)\n- [How to Plant Grass Seed on a Lawn](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-plant-grass-seed-on-existing-lawn-11935117)\n- [The Best Time to Plant Potatoes](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/when-to-plant-potatoes-11934544)\n\n# How to Keep Rabbits Out of Garden With or Without Fences\nWith some trial-and-error, you should be able to remove rabbits inexpensively\n\nBy\n\n[Lisa Jo Lupo](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/lisa-jo-lupo-2656128)\n\n![Lisa Jo Lupo]()\n\n![Lisa Jo Lupo](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/s0deKnAv2N74W6PTEG_QKvr1m0c=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/Lisa_Jo_Lupo-56a709603df78cf772919daf.jpg)\n\n[Lisa Jo Lupo](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/lisa-jo-lupo-2656128)\n\nLisa Jo Lupo is a pest control expert with over 25 years of experience in the pest control industry, writing about pest identification and management.\n\nLearn more about The Spruce's [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated on 09\/09\/25\n\nReviewed by\n\n[Amanda Rose Newton](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/amanda-rose-newton-5203436)\n\n![Amanda Rose Newton]()\n\n![Amanda Rose Newton](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/Cdte-8Gam99X0CcXtgefkSCpZVI=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/AmandaRose-827ab33c1aa94ede8786ab914e443824.png)\n\nReviewed by [Amanda Rose Newton](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/amanda-rose-newton-5203436)\n\nAmanda Rose Newton is a pest specialist and horticulture expert, reviewing pest control and gardening content for The Spruce's Cleaning and Gardening Review Board. Her passion for pest control and sustainable gardening allows her to review plant and pest content for best practices and accuracy. She is a board-certified entomologist and volunteers for USAIDs Farmer to Farmer program. She is a professor of Horticulture, an Education Specialist, and a pest specialist.\n\nLearn more about The Spruce's [Review Board](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/the-spruce-gardening-and-plant-care-review-board-4777222)\n\nFact checked by\n\n[Nandini Balial](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/nandini-balial-5114403)\n\nFact checked by [Nandini Balial](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/nandini-balial-5114403)\n\nNandini Balial is a writer and copy editor who specializes in lifestyle, food, mental health, immigration, film\/TV, literature, politics, and feminism. She has worked in a variety of fields, including television, film, book-selling, and publishing; she also spent over two years as a TaskRabbit maid, housekeeper, and personal assistant.\n\nLearn more about The Spruce's [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800#toc-fact-checking)\n\nHow to Keep Rabbits Out of Your Garden\n\n1:25\n\nIn This Article\n\nExpand\n\n- [Identification](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-what-do-rabbits-look-like)\n- [Signs](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-signs-of-rabbit-infestation)\n- [How to Get Rid of Rabbits](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-6-ways-to-get-rid-of-rabbits)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-what-attracts-rabbits-to-gardens)\n- [Prevention](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-how-to-get-rid-of-rabbits-permanently)\n- [When to Call a Pro](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-when-to-call-a-professional-to-treat-a-rabbit-infestation)\n- [FAQ](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-faq-358af137-738f-4198-bd4d-557ef845f26d)\n\nBack to Top\n\nRemoving rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage [rabbit damage](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/controlling-and-deterring-rabbits-1402144) is by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants.\n\nCredit:\n\nThe Spruce \/ Madelyn Goodnight\n## What Do Rabbits Look Like?\nThe most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail (*Sylvilagus floridanus*). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals. It does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat.\n\n![garden fencing to keep rabbits out]()\n\n![garden fencing to keep rabbits out](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/oql6kPNCMWCXlffO9ugWoKc9ZKQ=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-01-89b30b0c48bf4cc88121b8461c274b47.jpg)\n\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\n\n![rabbit behind a fence]()\n\n![rabbit behind a fence](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/tSOgVyS6PsG7lRz4sQOuPOyMDXk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-04-c64774d903214a40947464b7ac5182f6.jpg)\n\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\n## Signs of Rabbit Infestation\nYou might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as:\n\n- Small piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents)\n- Gnawed or stripped tree trunks\n- Rabbit fur near burrow entrances\n- Plants grazed to the ground\n## 6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits\n### Experiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors\nThe easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following:\n\n- Talcum powder\n- Vinegar\n- Ammonia\n- Mothballs\n- Chili pepper\n- Garlic\n- Ginger\n- Citrus peels\n- Dried sulfur\n- [Irish Spring](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/does-irish-soap-keep-rabbits-away-from-your-garden-11735809) soap shavings\n\n### Warning\nKeep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following:\n\n- Place small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell.\n- Spray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants.\n- Soap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard.\n### Plant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs\nJust like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many [rabbit-deterrent plants](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/rabbit-proof-plants-1402145) and [flowers](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/rabbit-resistant-plants-8672778) but consider growing these herbs for starters:\n\n- Rosemary\n- Mint\/catmint\n- Lavender\n- [Bee balm](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/herbs-4127740)\n- Thyme\n- Yarrow\n- Sage\n- Alliums\/chives\n### Install Garden Fencing\nFor immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden. [Chicken wire](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/protecting-bulbs-from-squirrels-2539825) with 1\/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control.\n\n### Protect Individual Plants\nUse 1\/4- to 1\/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around [new trees, shrubs, or vines](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/do-rabbits-eat-tomato-plants-11704502). Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble.\n\n### Modify the Habitat\nIf you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings.\n\n### Apply Repellents\nChemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use.\n\n### Tip\nOne type of [deer repellent](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/natural-deer-repellent-8651606) may work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate.\n### Deter With Predators\nIn areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a [fenced-in](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/use-dog-repellents-2132575) yard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds.\n\n### Trap as a Last Effort\nLive trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits.\n\n## What Attracts Rabbits to Gardens?\nRabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in [vegetable gardens](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/planning-and-starting-a-vegetable-garden-1403184) and on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas; [herbs](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/herbs-to-grow-indoors-5220148) such as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees.\n\nThere are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil.\n\n## How to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently\nDefense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires:\n\n- Regularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier\n- Inspecting plants weekly for damage\n- Watching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc.\n- Acting as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits\n## When to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation\nYou may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services.\n\nFAQ\n\n- What are some common signs of rabbits?\n  Common signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1\/4 inch to 1\/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush.\n- Do noises deter rabbits?\n  No, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants.\n- Are rabbits afraid of scarecrows?\n  Rabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals.\n- Do rabbits carry diseases?\n  Rabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine.\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Gardening](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/gardening-4127780)\n- [Plant Problems](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/pests-and-problems-4127760)\n- [Garden Pests](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/garden-pests-4127759)\n\nSources\n\nThe Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. [*Eastern Cottontail Rabbit.*](https:\/\/www.wildlifeillinois.org\/gallery\/mammals\/looks-like-a-dog\/eastern-cottontail\/) Wildlife Illinois.\n2. [*Rabbits Management Guidelines*](http:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/PESTNOTES\/pn7447.html). UC IPM.\n3. [*Rabbits Management Guidelines*](http:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/PESTNOTES\/pn7447.html). UC IPM.\n4. *[Tularemia Facts.](https:\/\/www.avma.org\/tularemia-facts#cause)* American Veterinary Medical Association.\n\n## More from The Spruce\n[![rabbit in a garden]() ![rabbit in a garden](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/TTqInnKaSGIB4zJ69qSsrIlt-OI=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-03-94f980f2fbf447c0a5f3d864081149e8.jpg) Does Irish Spring Soap Actually Keep Rabbits Away From Your Garden? 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This Low-Lift Trick Might Keep Them Away for Good (No Wasp Spray Necessary)](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/fake-wasp-nests-to-keep-wasps-away-11918002)\n\n[![Anthill closeup]() ![Anthill closeup](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/52V5na04N4_7DR8i5Mr--J1HzQ0=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-530284529-3b6f2d96484b4c3ca83e3b5e2ccccc73.jpg) How to Get Rid of Ant Hills—and Stop New Ones From Taking Over Your Yard](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-ant-hills-11918010)\n\n[![how to prevent ground moles with vinegar]() ![how to prevent ground moles with vinegar](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/z706LpUuWzcVWom5gq7E9MdEJbk=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-95247812-9fb842feb00a4000b54a19cd726ab050.jpg) How to Use Vinegar to Deter Ground Moles Naturally—Without Accidentally Damaging Your Lawn](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-prevent-ground-moles-with-vinegar-11923296)\n\n[![Lawn Grubs]() ![Lawn Grubs](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/XUHpP-ExL8gHFjBHnMdcW-lb-Hc=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/LawnGrubs-79b4b38b9f684a2cb11022bf0f3ef13c.jpg) 6 Signs You Have Lawn Grubs (and How to Fix It Before They Ruin Your Grass)](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/signs-you-have-lawn-grubs-11916021)\n\n[![Mole head in mole hill]() ![Mole head in mole hill](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/oXXq9q0cArxM1ENrsdcwuJy2xgI=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-494742677-b4b61158a448403b90542c7c3c748d54.jpg) 7 Natural Solutions to Keep Moles Away from Your Yard For Good](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/natural-solutions-to-keep-moles-away-11915754)\n\n[![grubs in yard]() ![grubs in yard](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/0ZUxHjQ9fA0z7Z6KF64_VtLFeHM=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-946165338-6fe99cb0d4964defb60879b11cbd87ad.jpg) How to Get Rid of Lawn Grubs Fast Before They Damage Your Yard](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-lawn-grubs-fast-11915746)\n\n[![Close-Up Of Wasps In Nest]() ![Close-Up Of Wasps In Nest](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/0LqAV6RhsJaC3OFStaBaPCKsRcM=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/close-up-of-wasps-in-nest-907974516-be1ac50decfd4e739e7b28615029df6f.jpg) 4 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Wasps Fast and Keep Them From Coming Back](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-wasps-fast-11915738)\n\n[![Hornworm with braconid wasp cocoons]() ![Hornworm with braconid wasp cocoons](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/9elhyTDaymA97jFszr9eoUsHW6s=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1352098610-443ca96a9f9542748a337df59a8b2c21.jpg) Should You Kill Tomato Hornworms? Why Pros Say They Can Help Your Garden Thrive](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/should-you-kill-tomato-hornworms-11916023)\n\n[![Overgrown invasive plants alongside staircase.]() ![Overgrown invasive plants alongside staircase.](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/ev5CPtU3t1qKuJT3uZHxyJEiAhQ=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1500777578-0dd14ad5ae9b426aa831861d0de5e364.jpg) Plant Them Once, and Watch Them Wreak Havoc—7 Invasive Plants That Will Take Over Quickly](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/invasive-plants-that-will-take-over-your-garden-11928902)\n\n[![DIY yellow jacket trap hanging under arbor]() ![DIY yellow jacket trap hanging under arbor](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/7Zvu1D8NB_7z9pXqHZJdZ8upl9A=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/SPR-diy-yellow-jacket-trap-8655738-hero-v_33321-ab44cce265034d9baff4390e506d174b.jpg) How to Make a Yellow Jacket Trap That Really Works](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/diy-yellow-jacket-trap-11915755)\n\n[![A person rubbing mint on a hummingbird feeder]() ![A person rubbing mint on a hummingbird feeder](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/thmb\/No2DKhSl9WTJ8FlMVcrjqwlCGsc=\/315x208\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/SPR-how-to-keep-ants-out-of-hummingbird-feeder-8665382-05-c8664d5140e94612b6d9e9b98956d3e8.jpg) 7 Clever Ways to Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeders](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/how-to-keep-ants-out-of-hummingbird-feeders-11896283)\n\n[Visit The Spruce's homepage](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/)\n\nLearn tips for creating your most beautiful home and garden ever.\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311)\n\nFollow us:\n\n- [Decor](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/home-design-and-decorating-4127998)\n- [Garden](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/gardening-4127780)\n- [Home Improvement](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/home-improvement-4127862)\n- [Cleaning](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/cleaning-and-organizing-4127927)\n- [Celebrations](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/celebrations-4163111)\n- [What to Buy](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/best-home-products-4135328)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/home-news-5070015)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/about-us-4776800#toc-contact-us)\n\nThe Spruce is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up","attrs_readable_markdown":"Removing rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage [rabbit damage](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/controlling-and-deterring-rabbits-1402144) is by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants.\n\nCredit:\n\nThe Spruce \/ Madelyn Goodnight\n## What Do Rabbits Look Like?\nThe most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail (*Sylvilagus floridanus*). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals. It does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat.\n\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\n\nCredit: The Spruce \/ Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault\n\n## Signs of Rabbit Infestation\nYou might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as:\n\n- Small piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents)\n- Gnawed or stripped tree trunks\n- Rabbit fur near burrow entrances\n- Plants grazed to the ground\n## 6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits\n### Experiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors\nThe easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following:\n\n- Talcum powder\n- Vinegar\n- Ammonia\n- Mothballs\n- Chili pepper\n- Garlic\n- Ginger\n- Citrus peels\n- Dried sulfur\n- [Irish Spring](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/does-irish-soap-keep-rabbits-away-from-your-garden-11735809) soap shavings\n\n### Warning\nKeep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following:\n\n- Place small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell.\n- Spray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants.\n- Soap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard.\n### Plant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs\nJust like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many [rabbit-deterrent plants](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/rabbit-proof-plants-1402145) and [flowers](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/rabbit-resistant-plants-8672778) but consider growing these herbs for starters:\n\n- Rosemary\n- Mint\/catmint\n- Lavender\n- [Bee balm](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/herbs-4127740)\n- Thyme\n- Yarrow\n- Sage\n- Alliums\/chives\n### Install Garden Fencing\nFor immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden. [Chicken wire](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/protecting-bulbs-from-squirrels-2539825) with 1\/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control.\n\n### Protect Individual Plants\nUse 1\/4- to 1\/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around [new trees, shrubs, or vines](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/do-rabbits-eat-tomato-plants-11704502). Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble.\n\n### Modify the Habitat\nIf you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings.\n\n### Apply Repellents\nChemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use.\n\n### Tip\nOne type of [deer repellent](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/natural-deer-repellent-8651606) may work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate.\n### Deter With Predators\nIn areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a [fenced-in](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/use-dog-repellents-2132575) yard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds.\n\n### Trap as a Last Effort\nLive trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits.\n\n## What Attracts Rabbits to Gardens?\nRabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in [vegetable gardens](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/planning-and-starting-a-vegetable-garden-1403184) and on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas; [herbs](https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/herbs-to-grow-indoors-5220148) such as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees.\n\nThere are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil.\n\n## How to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently\nDefense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires:\n\n- Regularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier\n- Inspecting plants weekly for damage\n- Watching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc.\n- Acting as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits\n## When to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation\nYou may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services.\n\nFAQ\n\n- Common signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1\/4 inch to 1\/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush.\n- No, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants.\n- Rabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals.\n- Rabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	How to Keep Rabbits Out of Garden With or Without Fences
Meta Description	Rabbits can damage gardens and lawns. Here are three good ways to keep rabbits away, plus some tips for long-term control.
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Boilerpipe Text	Removing rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage rabbit damage is by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants. Credit: The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight What Do Rabbits Look Like? The most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail ( Sylvilagus floridanus ). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals. It does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat. Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault Signs of Rabbit Infestation You might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as: Small piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents) Gnawed or stripped tree trunks Rabbit fur near burrow entrances Plants grazed to the ground 6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits Experiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors The easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following: Talcum powder Vinegar Ammonia Mothballs Chili pepper Garlic Ginger Citrus peels Dried sulfur Irish Spring soap shavings Warning Keep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following: Place small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell. Spray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants. Soap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard. Plant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs Just like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many rabbit-deterrent plants and flowers but consider growing these herbs for starters: Rosemary Mint/catmint Lavender Bee balm Thyme Yarrow Sage Alliums/chives Install Garden Fencing For immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden. Chicken wire with 1/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control. Protect Individual Plants Use 1/4- to 1/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around new trees, shrubs, or vines . Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble. Modify the Habitat If you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings. Apply Repellents Chemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use. Tip One type of deer repellent may work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate. Deter With Predators In areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a fenced-in yard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds. Trap as a Last Effort Live trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits. What Attracts Rabbits to Gardens? Rabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in vegetable gardens and on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas; herbs such as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees. There are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil. How to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently Defense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires: Regularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier Inspecting plants weekly for damage Watching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc. Acting as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits When to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation You may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services. FAQ Common signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush. No, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants. Rabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals. Rabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine.
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[How to Plant Grass Seed on a Lawn](https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-plant-grass-seed-on-existing-lawn-11935117) - [The Best Time to Plant Potatoes](https://www.thespruce.com/when-to-plant-potatoes-11934544) # How to Keep Rabbits Out of Garden With or Without Fences With some trial-and-error, you should be able to remove rabbits inexpensively By [Lisa Jo Lupo](https://www.thespruce.com/lisa-jo-lupo-2656128) ![Lisa Jo Lupo]() ![Lisa Jo Lupo](https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/s0deKnAv2N74W6PTEG_QKvr1m0c=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Lisa_Jo_Lupo-56a709603df78cf772919daf.jpg) [Lisa Jo Lupo](https://www.thespruce.com/lisa-jo-lupo-2656128) Lisa Jo Lupo is a pest control expert with over 25 years of experience in the pest control industry, writing about pest identification and management. Learn more about The Spruce's [Editorial Process](https://www.thespruce.com/about-us-4776800#toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated on 09/09/25 Reviewed by [Amanda Rose Newton](https://www.thespruce.com/amanda-rose-newton-5203436) ![Amanda Rose Newton]() ![Amanda Rose Newton](https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/Cdte-8Gam99X0CcXtgefkSCpZVI=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/AmandaRose-827ab33c1aa94ede8786ab914e443824.png) Reviewed by [Amanda Rose Newton](https://www.thespruce.com/amanda-rose-newton-5203436) Amanda Rose Newton is a pest specialist and horticulture expert, reviewing pest control and gardening content for The Spruce's Cleaning and Gardening Review Board. Her passion for pest control and sustainable gardening allows her to review plant and pest content for best practices and accuracy. She is a board-certified entomologist and volunteers for USAIDs Farmer to Farmer program. She is a professor of Horticulture, an Education Specialist, and a pest specialist. Learn more about The Spruce's [Review Board](https://www.thespruce.com/the-spruce-gardening-and-plant-care-review-board-4777222) Fact checked by [Nandini Balial](https://www.thespruce.com/nandini-balial-5114403) Fact checked by [Nandini Balial](https://www.thespruce.com/nandini-balial-5114403) Nandini Balial is a writer and copy editor who specializes in lifestyle, food, mental health, immigration, film/TV, literature, politics, and feminism. She has worked in a variety of fields, including television, film, book-selling, and publishing; she also spent over two years as a TaskRabbit maid, housekeeper, and personal assistant. Learn more about The Spruce's [Editorial Process](https://www.thespruce.com/about-us-4776800#toc-fact-checking) How to Keep Rabbits Out of Your Garden 1:25 In This Article Expand - [Identification](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-what-do-rabbits-look-like) - [Signs](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-signs-of-rabbit-infestation) - [How to Get Rid of Rabbits](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-6-ways-to-get-rid-of-rabbits) - [Causes](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-what-attracts-rabbits-to-gardens) - [Prevention](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-how-to-get-rid-of-rabbits-permanently) - [When to Call a Pro](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-when-to-call-a-professional-to-treat-a-rabbit-infestation) - [FAQ](https://www.thespruce.com/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311#toc-faq-358af137-738f-4198-bd4d-557ef845f26d) Back to Top Removing rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage [rabbit damage](https://www.thespruce.com/controlling-and-deterring-rabbits-1402144) is by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants. Credit: The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight ## What Do Rabbits Look Like? The most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals. It does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat. ![garden fencing to keep rabbits out]() ![garden fencing to keep rabbits out](https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/oql6kPNCMWCXlffO9ugWoKc9ZKQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-01-89b30b0c48bf4cc88121b8461c274b47.jpg) Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault ![rabbit behind a fence]() ![rabbit behind a fence](https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/tSOgVyS6PsG7lRz4sQOuPOyMDXk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-04-c64774d903214a40947464b7ac5182f6.jpg) Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault ## Signs of Rabbit Infestation You might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as: - Small piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents) - Gnawed or stripped tree trunks - Rabbit fur near burrow entrances - Plants grazed to the ground ## 6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits ### Experiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors The easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following: - Talcum powder - Vinegar - Ammonia - Mothballs - Chili pepper - Garlic - Ginger - Citrus peels - Dried sulfur - [Irish Spring](https://www.thespruce.com/does-irish-soap-keep-rabbits-away-from-your-garden-11735809) soap shavings ### Warning Keep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following: - Place small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell. - Spray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants. - Soap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard. ### Plant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs Just like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many [rabbit-deterrent plants](https://www.thespruce.com/rabbit-proof-plants-1402145) and [flowers](https://www.thespruce.com/rabbit-resistant-plants-8672778) but consider growing these herbs for starters: - Rosemary - Mint/catmint - Lavender - [Bee balm](https://www.thespruce.com/herbs-4127740) - Thyme - Yarrow - Sage - Alliums/chives ### Install Garden Fencing For immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden. [Chicken wire](https://www.thespruce.com/protecting-bulbs-from-squirrels-2539825) with 1/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control. ### Protect Individual Plants Use 1/4- to 1/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around [new trees, shrubs, or vines](https://www.thespruce.com/do-rabbits-eat-tomato-plants-11704502). Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble. ### Modify the Habitat If you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings. ### Apply Repellents Chemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use. ### Tip One type of [deer repellent](https://www.thespruce.com/natural-deer-repellent-8651606) may work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate. ### Deter With Predators In areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a [fenced-in](https://www.thespruce.com/use-dog-repellents-2132575) yard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds. ### Trap as a Last Effort Live trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits. ## What Attracts Rabbits to Gardens? Rabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in [vegetable gardens](https://www.thespruce.com/planning-and-starting-a-vegetable-garden-1403184) and on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas; [herbs](https://www.thespruce.com/herbs-to-grow-indoors-5220148) such as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees. There are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil. ## How to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently Defense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires: - Regularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier - Inspecting plants weekly for damage - Watching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc. - Acting as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits ## When to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation You may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services. FAQ - What are some common signs of rabbits? Common signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush. - Do noises deter rabbits? No, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants. - Are rabbits afraid of scarecrows? Rabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals. - Do rabbits carry diseases? Rabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine. Explore more: - [Gardening](https://www.thespruce.com/gardening-4127780) - [Plant Problems](https://www.thespruce.com/pests-and-problems-4127760) - [Garden Pests](https://www.thespruce.com/garden-pests-4127759) Sources The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.thespruce.com/about-us-4776800#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. [Eastern Cottontail Rabbit.](https://www.wildlifeillinois.org/gallery/mammals/looks-like-a-dog/eastern-cottontail/) Wildlife Illinois. 2. [Rabbits Management Guidelines](http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7447.html). UC IPM. 3. [Rabbits Management Guidelines](http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7447.html). UC IPM. 4. [Tularemia Facts.](https://www.avma.org/tularemia-facts#cause) American Veterinary Medical Association. ## More from The Spruce [![rabbit in a garden]() ![rabbit in a garden](https://www.thespruce.com/thmb/TTqInnKaSGIB4zJ69qSsrIlt-OI=/315x208/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/keeping-rabbits-away-from-the-garden-2656311-03-94f980f2fbf447c0a5f3d864081149e8.jpg) Does Irish Spring Soap Actually Keep Rabbits Away From Your Garden? 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Readable Markdown	Removing rabbits from your garden can save your plants and property from damage. Cottontails and jackrabbits may look cute, but they can harm your landscape, food crops, and even damage trees, shrubs, wires, and furniture due to their chewing habits. The most effective way to manage [rabbit damage](https://www.thespruce.com/controlling-and-deterring-rabbits-1402144) is by gently discouraging them and blocking their access to your plants. Credit: The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight ## What Do Rabbits Look Like? The most common rabbit found in yards and gardens throughout the United States is the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus). Its primary habitat is landscaped and planted areas rather than wilderness. It has large, tapered ears and mottled brown, black, and white fur. It grows 15 to 19 inches long and weighs 2 to 4 pounds. The eastern cottontail nests below hedgerows and other plantings, beneath undergrowth, and inside burrows abandoned by other animals. It does not dig warrens like some other rabbit species. Jackrabbits are brown and larger than cottontails, almost to the size of a cat. Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault Credit: The Spruce / Micah Issitt and Adrienne Legault ## Signs of Rabbit Infestation You might see rabbits active during the morning, late afternoon, or evening, but you can also spot signs of them nesting in your yard, such as: - Small piles of round, brown droppings (tubular droppings indicate other rodents) - Gnawed or stripped tree trunks - Rabbit fur near burrow entrances - Plants grazed to the ground ## 6 Ways to Get Rid of Rabbits ### Experiment With Unpleasant Rabbit Odors The easiest solution is to experiment with scattering scents around your yard that rabbits reportedly hate. Either dust some of these items on plants (rabbits are sensitive to dusty items) or sprinkle them around plants. Otherwise, dilute liquids with water and spray to deter rabbits. Consider trying the following: - Talcum powder - Vinegar - Ammonia - Mothballs - Chili pepper - Garlic - Ginger - Citrus peels - Dried sulfur - [Irish Spring](https://www.thespruce.com/does-irish-soap-keep-rabbits-away-from-your-garden-11735809) soap shavings ### Warning Keep vinegar and ammonia away from plants. If you want to experiment with vinegar or ammonia, try the following: - Place small jars of white vinegar around the garden and poke holes in the lid to let out the smell. - Spray one part vinegar to three parts water and spray it around the property but away from plants. - Soap rags in undiluted ammonia and place them (not near plants) where rabbits may be hiding or on trails they use to access your yard. ### Plant Rabbit-Deterrent Herbs Just like deer, rabbits are not a fan of many of the same plants so by incorporating these herbs into your yard, you will deter both animals. There are many [rabbit-deterrent plants](https://www.thespruce.com/rabbit-proof-plants-1402145) and [flowers](https://www.thespruce.com/rabbit-resistant-plants-8672778) but consider growing these herbs for starters: - Rosemary - Mint/catmint - Lavender - [Bee balm](https://www.thespruce.com/herbs-4127740) - Thyme - Yarrow - Sage - Alliums/chives ### Install Garden Fencing For immediate protection against wildlife, use fencing around the garden. [Chicken wire](https://www.thespruce.com/protecting-bulbs-from-squirrels-2539825) with 1/2- to 1-inch mesh effectively deters rabbits. Make fences at least 2 feet high to prevent rabbits from jumping over. Extend the fencing 6 inches below ground or secure it tightly to stop burrowing. Electric net fencing is suitable for temporary control. ### Protect Individual Plants Use 1/4- to 1/2-inch mesh chicken wire or hardware cloth to form cylinders around [new trees, shrubs, or vines](https://www.thespruce.com/do-rabbits-eat-tomato-plants-11704502). Bury the fencing 6 inches deep to prevent burrowing. Provide several inches of clearance around the plant and, if the fencing is flimsy, add bracing to prevent the rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble. ### Modify the Habitat If you have found evidence of rabbit nesting, remove it, and modify or block off the area to keep them from coming back in. Proactively reduce nesting options by removing low shrubbery branches that provide harborage for rabbits. Eliminate tall, dense vegetation and wood and debris piles. Control vegetation along fence rows. Seal spaces beneath buildings. ### Apply Repellents Chemical repellents can be applied to some trees, vines, or other plants that are in danger from rabbits. But these can create an unpleasant odor, taste, or stickiness. Because of this, most repellents are not suited for use on vegetables or other food plants, as they can make the plant inedible for humans. In addition, repellents often work only for a short time and need to be reapplied frequently. If you choose to use a repellent, carefully read and follow all label directions before use. ### Tip One type of [deer repellent](https://www.thespruce.com/natural-deer-repellent-8651606) may work well for repelling rabbits, too. Look for one with a mix of dried bovine blood, sulfured eggs, and garlic, which are all smells rabbits hate. ### Deter With Predators In areas with many rabbits, natural predators like foxes, hawks, owls, and snakes may appear, even in urban environments. These small predators are harmless to people and usually to pets, so it's beneficial to allow them to stay as they can help control the rabbit population. A family dog with hunting instincts can also deter rabbits if allowed to roam freely in a [fenced-in](https://www.thespruce.com/use-dog-repellents-2132575) yard. While house cats can deter rabbits, experts often advise against letting them roam outside due to risks to songbirds. ### Trap as a Last Effort Live trapping of rabbits is an option, but it is usually not recommended that you do this yourself because it can be challenging to deal with the trapped animal. Because rabbits are considered agricultural pests in many states, and because they can carry disease, there are often laws that regulate where and how you can release wild rabbits. ## What Attracts Rabbits to Gardens? Rabbits can, and will, eat just about any tender plant, so they are naturally drawn in by home gardens. In the spring, they will feed on newly sprouted grass and clover; in the fall and winter when food is less available, they will survive on whatever bark and seedlings they can find. But all too often, the rabbits' favorite food is the same food loved by the homeowners: the delicious produce found in [vegetable gardens](https://www.thespruce.com/planning-and-starting-a-vegetable-garden-1403184) and on fruit bushes. Favorites include vegetables such as beans, beet, broccoli, carrot, lettuce, and peas; [herbs](https://www.thespruce.com/herbs-to-grow-indoors-5220148) such as cilantro and parsley; and nuts and fruits such as almonds, apples, berries, plums, etc. For good measure, many rabbits are also quite fond of ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees. There are of course other wild animals that also feed on tender plants and gnaw on trees and shrubs; deer, squirrels, chipmunks, woodchucks, and raccoons are all familiar villains in this drama. But when you see plants chomped off and bark gnawed, with the presence of rabbit fecal pellets in the area, it is almost certain that rabbits are to blame. And you may well get verification by spotting the unmistakable tracks of the rabbit's long back feet impressed in the soil. ## How to Get Rid of Rabbits Permanently Defense against rabbits is an ongoing battle. No matter how you choose to prevent, discourage, or get rid of rabbits—or how successful those methods are for the moment—you will need to be constantly vigilant. Rabbits reproduce like—well, rabbits—and there will always be more coming to investigate your garden and landscape, so it may not be possible to find a truly permanent solution. Ongoing rabbit defense requires: - Regularly inspecting fencing to ensure rabbits are not getting through, under, or around the barrier - Inspecting plants weekly for damage - Watching for rabbits signs: fecal pellets, chewed-off plants, gnawed bark, etc. - Acting as soon as you see the first sign of rabbits ## When to Call a Professional to Treat a Rabbit Infestation You may prefer to have a professional install fencing to keep out the rabbits. In addition, professional control is also available through pest management companies that provide nuisance wildlife management services. FAQ - Common signs of rabbit presence include scattered coarse, round fecal pellets, which can be 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch in size. You might also notice rabbit fur attached to tree branches, rabbit trails, or nesting areas under bushes or brush. - No, noises like noisemakers, flashing lights, or ultrasonic sounds do not effectively deter rabbits. Rabbits quickly learn to ignore these devices and will continue to feed on plants. - Rabbits are not scared of scarecrow-like items, such as fake owls, snakes, or hawk figurines. These products do not effectively deter rabbits or other pest animals. - Rabbits, especially cottontails, can carry tularemia, also known as rabbit fever. This disease can be transmitted to humans through contaminated food or water, by consuming infected rabbits, through blood-feeding insects like ticks and mosquitos, or by breathing in dust from infected feces, tissue, or urine.
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