Homeowners may come across a small patch of fur and grass in their lawn, which is the primary indicator of a rabbit hole or a nest. Like most other wild animals, rabbits also burrow underground to sustain themselves. Although rabbits are known for their endearing looks, their burrows can cause certain problems in the yard.
Therefore, it becomes important to identify them and take necessary action. It is not sufficient to deal with burrows by filling in holes. Instead, they must be taken care of more meticulously so that the rabbits or other wild animals don’t return to the yard seeking shelter.
Why Do Rabbits Dig Holes?
Rabbits primarily dig holes for survival. It also protects them from predators like hawks, coyotes, and neighborhood cats. The burrow also provides a safe place for rabbits to raise their young ones. They often look for soft and loose soil that makes digging much easier. Rabbits are easily attracted to any yard with landscaped mulch beds, garden edges, shaded spots, or shrubs. These holes are often dug near food sources like vegetable gardens, flowering plants, and even young trees. Even the local climate plays a crucial role in determining why rabbits dig holes. For instance, if the climate is too hot, they dig holes to keep themselves cool underground.
If the climate is too cold, then the same burrow acts as a place that provides warmth and protection. After creating a burrow, rabbits frequently revisit the same location. If left untreated, a rabbit hole may become a permanent nesting site.
What Problems Do Rabbit Holes Cause?
Wild rabbits also have an endless appetite, just like domestic rabbits. Once they create a hole or burrow in the yard, they constantly graze on whatever is available. They can consume anything from flowers to vegetable patches, causing significant damage to landscapes and gardens.
The holes rabbits leave behind in the yards are not very pleasant to look at. They also gnaw at the bottoms of trees, stripping away bark and leaving bare patches behind.
How Long Will Rabbit Hole Last in the Yard?
The rabbit’s nests usually last between two and three weeks. However, here are a few factors that influence this timeline.
Predator Activity
Predators pose one of the biggest threats to rabbit nests. Animals like foxes, hawks, raccoons, and even neighbourhood cats can endanger the nest. There is always a possibility that the mother will relocate her kits earlier than planned if she senses any danger. However, the babies often do not make it if a predator spots the nest.
Weather
Extreme cold can slow kit growth, so they need to stay in the nest longer than usual. Heavy rain also causes severe problems; it can flood the nest or cause enough damage to force the mother to relocate her young ones.
Human Interference
When people repeatedly disturb a nest during lawn mowing or raking, the mother may decide to abandon the hole. If homeowners do not mind rabbit holes, they should avoid touching baby rabbits unless there is no other choice.
How to Get Rid of Rabbit Holes?
Fill the Hole or Burrow
One direct way to get rid of the hole would be to carefully fill the burrow, which prevents rabbits from using it. Dirt or gravel can be used to safely fill the burrow. Additionally, placing a chicken wire underneath will stop the rabbits from digging the hole again. However, it is important to ensure no rabbits are inside while following this process, or they could be trapped underground.
The area that was filled must be supervised for the next few days to ensure they do not return and reopen the hole. Applying deterrents, such as predator scent or other natural repellents, around the hole may further deter rabbits from returning.
Habitat Modification
Trimming tall grass and decluttering the property can help deter rabbits. They are mostly attracted to dense vegetation and areas with plenty of hiding spots; however, open spaces leave them exposed to surrounding dangers. This will lower the chances of them digging holes.
They are especially attracted to garden beds because of it being a primary food source. Raised garden beds or netting can prevent them from turning gardens into a food source. Without appropriate shelter and adequate food, they might avoid the yard altogether.
Use of Deterrents
Predator urine granules or strong-smelling substances can be used to deter rabbits. However, these deterrents have to be reapplied. They work best when paired with other strategies mentioned above. In addition, vinegar or other homemade sprays can be used as natural deterrents.
Professional Wildlife Removal
If the yard is filled with multiple holes and burrows, it is best to contact professionals. These experts can safely remove rabbits from the yard while ensuring they don’t return.
Conclusion
Although rabbit holes may seem harmless at first glance, they can escalate and cause damage to yards. If homeowners want to avoid this altogether, it is best to keep the yard well-maintained. Following a few precautionary measures can help keep yards free of rabbit holes.
