Is there anything that is cuter than a little cottontail running through the field and nibbling on clover as it moves along? These animals are seriously adorable, but they are also a problem. There are several problems that rabbits cause and their population is getting out of control in Southern California. Animal Pest Management Services, Inc is here to talk about why the rabbit population is a problem and what can be done to get rid of them.

Jackrabbits & Desert Cottontail Rabbits Found in Southern California

There are about six different rabbit species that are commonly found in California. In Southern California, we primarily deal with two of them: Desert Cottontail and Jackrabbit. Cottontails are much smaller than jackrabbits, but you most likely have seen both of them hopping around your neighborhood. Jackrabbits can be as large as a small cat; weighing in at almost 7 pounds. The biggest difference between the two rabbits comes from the tail. The tail of a cottontail is round and white, while the jackrabbit is found to have a longer tails that is black and grey.

Signs of Wild Rabbits in Your Yard

Many people know that they have a rabbit problem when they find that many of their beloved plants have been eaten down to the ground overnight. These animals are busiest at night when you are sleeping which makes them difficult to get under control. They are attracted to your veggies, flowers and as well as some fruit plants. Other signs may include the presence of their droppings. These look like small pellets. Cottontail droppings are much smaller than jackrabbit droppings, but both of them will be small and round. You may also notice that there are gnaw and nibble marks on your irrigation system along with the nibbling of your plants as well.

Diseases Wild Rabbits Carry

There are more problems that come with rabbits than just the disappearance of your plants though. You need to be seriously concerned about the diseases that they carry as well. Rabbits are the main carriers of a dangerous disease known as tularemia in the United States. This disease is a serious concern and can even cause death if it is left untreated. You should never handle a wild rabbit without wearing protective clothing because of the risk of this disease. Symptoms of tularemia include:
– Ulcer at the site of the bite
– Swollen lymph glands
– Fever
– Chills
– Loss of appetite
– Headache
– Muscle aches
Because this disease is so serious, if you come in contact with a wild rabbit and experience any of the symptoms listed above, you need to seek medical attention right away.

Rabbit Inspections, Control in San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside & San Diego Counties, California

Keeping rabbits out of your yard and off your property can prove to be difficult. They can squeeze through even the smallest cracks and holes in a fence. If you have a large population on your property, you can count on Animal Pest Management Services, Inc. to help you get rid of them. Call us today!