Marsh Rabbit

Scientific Name: Sylvilagus palustris
Classification: Small game
Abundance: Locally abundant in the eastern Piedmont and coastal region.
Photo Credits: Mark Buckler

Avid Upland Gamebird and Rabbit Hunter Survey

Appearance

• The marsh rabbit is one of three native rabbit species in North Carolina.
• Marsh rabbits have coarse, dark brown fur and small feet.
• The underside of the tail is a dark bluish-gray color – they are often called “bluetail.”

Diet

• The marsh rabbit is also referred to as a “cane cutter,” due to its propensity to feed on switch cane, which is a tough, “woody” grass.
• Will eat rhizomes, bulbs, and other tender and succulent vegetation. In winter, they will eat twigs and bark.

Habitat and Habits

• Found in the eastern part of the state.
• Only found in or near wet habitats like thick bottomlands and swamps.
• Lead semi-aquatic lives and are excellent swimmers.
• Secretive behavior and primarily active at night
• Marsh rabbits are not swamp rabbits, which do not occur in NC. 

Learn more by reading the Marsh Rabbit species profile.

Regulations

The marsh rabbit is classified as a small game species with season and bag limits. 

Check out the marsh rabbit seasons and limits.

Have a Wildlife Problem? 

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV-2) is a highly contagious and often fatal virus that affects rabbits. Although the disease is currently found throughout the western U.S. in native cottontail species and not in North Carolina, the NorthCarolina Wildlife Resources Commission is working under the assumption that the virus will eventually make its way to the state. Read "RHDV2 Recommendations for Hunters and Trappers While Handling and Consuming Rabbits" handout.

Found a Nest?

Rabbits build their nests in low, dense vegetation, and are often discovered by unsuspecting homeowners when gardening or mowing the lawn. If you find a nest and there is no adult nearby, don’t worry - this is normal. Female rabbits only visit the nest to feed their young a few times a day and will avoid drawing any attention to their location when people or other potential predators are nearby. If the young are undisturbed, it is best to leave the nest alone as you found it. Baby rabbits that are unharmed but outside the nest can be gently put back, and the vegetation pressed into place to cover them. It can help to run your hands in dirt first to prevent leaving human scent around the nest, which may attract predators. If one or more of the young rabbits are obviously injured, contact a licensed small mammal rehabilitator. If you suspect the nest has been or will be abandoned, place twigs or fresh blades of grass over the opening in a tic-tac-toe pattern. Check back in 24 hours, and if the twigs have not been disturbed, contact a rehabilitator.

Found a Baby Rabbit?

Young rabbits found outside the nest that are larger than 4 inches long and able to hop around freely are independent juveniles and do not need assistance. Young rabbits that are smaller than 4 inches and are relatively immobile are still under the care of their mother and should be returned to the nest, if possible. For young that are visibly injured or cannot be returned to the nest, contact a licensed small mammal rehabilitator for assistance.