Also known as: Eastern cottontail, Cottontail
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
Nov 1 - Feb 28.
License & Regulations
A valid West Virginia hunting license is required for resident and non-resident hunters age 15 and older. Licenses can be purchased online through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website or at authorized license retailers. Additional stamps may be required: RB (Resource Ballot) or RRB (Resource Recovery Ballot) for antlerless deer, TRD (Turkey Stamp) for spring turkey, and the federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp) for waterfowl. Hunters born on or after January 1, 1975 must successfully complete a hunter education course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Cottontail Rabbit in West Virginia
Cottontail rabbit season runs from November through February. Daily bag limit is 5 rabbits, 20 in possession. Rabbits are most common along fence lines, lowlands, old fields, pastures, and orchards throughout West Virginia.
When is Cottontail Rabbit hunting season in West Virginia?
The Cottontail Rabbit hunting season in West Virginia: Nov 1 - Feb 28.
What is the bag limit for Cottontail Rabbit in West Virginia?
The bag limit for Cottontail Rabbit in West Virginia is: 5 per day, 20 possession limit.
What's another name for Cottontail Rabbit?
Cottontail Rabbit is also known as Eastern cottontail, Cottontail in West Virginia.
How to identify Cottontail Rabbit?
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.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Nov 1 - Feb 28. | Link |
| West Virginia | Hunting | License | License & Fees | A valid West Virginia hunting license is required for resident and non-resident hunters age 15 and older. Licenses can b | Link |
| West Virginia | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Cottontail rabbit season runs from November through February. Daily bag limit is 5 rabbits, 20 in possession. Rabbits ar | Link |



