declining rabbit populations reported in KY

The Ky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) reports a serious decline in wild rabbit populations, documented since the 1970's. Locally, rabbit hunting, along with all other small game hunting, has fallen from public interest. In response to both KDFWR has a poll on their website asking public input about lengthening the rabbit season, and lowering the daily bag limit to two rabbits daily. I find it curious that lengthening the season and attempting to draw more hunters would be considered as an option for increasing the wild population. The two per day bag limit suits me fine and so I voted, the longer season, I voted against. In the suggestions and comments section I asked about a habitat improvement program like the one currently underway to bolster quail populations.

I have not hunted rabbit for several years now, perhaps 10 or more. but I want to keep the wild population as healthy as possible.

A greater intrest in hunting means more funding will go toward conservation efforts. More fund means better managment of habitat. Here in south east Ky, there has been a noticeable increase in the rabbit population over the past few years. I think some of the decline was due to the increased number of preditors. We now have bears, cyotes, more bobcats, and mountian lions (whether the DNR will admit it or not).

I raise rabbit so I don't have a need to hunt them, but it is good to hear that there is an effort to preserve the wild population.

God bless,
Chad

I think they all moved into my front yard! We have tons of wild rabbits running around our yard.