Also known as: Desert cottontail, Audubon's cottontail, Brush rabbit, Sylvilagus
Cottontail rabbits comprise the genus Sylvilagus, which is in the family Leporidae. They are found in the Americas. Most Sylvilagus species have stub tails with white undersides that show when they retreat, giving them their characteristic name, but this feature is not present in all Sylvilagus species, nor is it unique to the genus. Their fur ranges from brown to gray and changes throughout the year, depending on the season.
Hunting Season
General: Jul 1 - Jan 31. Falconry Only: Feb 1 - Mar 21.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Cottontail Rabbit in California
Cottontail rabbit hunting in California runs July 1 through January 31. Daily bag limit is 5 rabbits. A valid California hunting license is required. Nonlead ammunition is required. Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is endemic in California; hunters in affected counties should take precautions. Several Sylvilagus species occur in California including desert cottontail and brush rabbit.
What species of rabbits are hunted in California?
Several species of Sylvilagus rabbits are hunted in California, including the desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii) and brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani). The daily bag limit is 5 rabbits and the season runs July 1 through January 31.
When is Cottontail Rabbit hunting season in California?
General: Jul 1 - Jan 31. Falconry Only: Feb 1 - Mar 21.
What is the bag limit for Cottontail Rabbit in California?
5 per day. Possession limit: 10.
What is another name for Cottontail Rabbit?
Cottontail Rabbit is also known as Desert cottontail, Audubon's cottontail, Brush rabbit, Sylvilagus in California.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | General: Jul 1 - Jan 31. Falconry Only: Feb 1 - Mar 21. | Link |
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Cottontail rabbit hunting in California runs July 1 through January 31. Daily bag limit is 5 rabbits. A valid California | Link |



