What is the best long-term control method for cottontail rabbits?

The best long-term control method for cottontail rabbits is exclusion. This involves implementing physical barriers or strategies to prevent rabbits from accessing specific areas where they are unwanted. For example, installing fencing around gardens or vulnerable landscapes can effectively keep rabbits out. This approach not only reduces the immediate problem but also minimizes the likelihood of future infestations by making the environment less accessible to rabbits.

Exclusion is particularly advantageous because it is a non-lethal method that can provide a permanent solution without the risks associated with other control methods, such as trapping or the use of chemicals. While trapping can reduce rabbit populations temporarily, it does not prevent new rabbits from moving into the area. Similarly, fumigants and repellents may offer short-term relief but generally do not provide a long-lasting solution, as they do not address the underlying access problem. Therefore, using exclusion methods is considered the most sustainable and effective long-term strategy for controlling cottontail rabbit populations.