As the snow starts to pile up across Western New York, I’m reminded of those Sunday afternoon rabbit hunts from when we were kids. Few things were as exciting as heading out after a fresh snowstorm on a clear, sunny day, looking for rabbits that were sunning themselves. Fast forward 30 plus years, and those same winter woods still get me fired up.

I’ve been deer hunting all fall and taking the kids along. The best part hasn’t been the deer or big bucks, since we’re not seeing many, but the memories we’ve made together. I’ve seen plenty of friends tag some impressive bucks, and I’ve written a few stories about the success Western New York deer hunters have had this season. But nothing beats experiencing hunting again through my kids’ eyes.

Rabbit Hunting Supports Conservation in New York State

Rabbit hunting is a great tradition, and like most hunting practices, it plays an important role in wildlife conservation. As hunters, we have a responsibility to the land, the habitat, and the animals we pursue. Here in New York State, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) does more than enforce laws. They help guide us in responsible conservation efforts.

 Protecting New York’s Wild Rabbit Population

According to the DEC, hunters should be aware of several important steps to help protect wild rabbit populations across New York and throughout the Northeast. One point that stood out to me: the DEC is asking hunters to avoid contact with domestic rabbits. This is to limit the potential spread of diseases that can move between domestic and wild rabbits, sometimes even through indirect human contact.

“If you are a rabbit or hare hunter:
• Avoid contact with domestic rabbits.
• Beagle clubs should not use both wild and domestic rabbits for training.
• Avoid travel to states that have confirmed RHDV2 outbreaks; disinfect all gear after out-of-state travel with a 10 percent bleach solution: 1 part household bleach, 9 parts water”.

Rabbit Populations and Predators in Western New York

From what I’ve seen, rabbit numbers around our area still seem pretty solid. But predators are part of the equation too. I recently covered a story about the rising number of coyote sightings in our local woods. Coyotes, hawks, owls, and other predators are chasing the same rabbits that hunters are. Keeping populations in balance is important not just for hunting, but for the predators that depend on rabbits for survival.

Read More: The Raw Truth About Trespassing In New York State

Good Luck, Western New York Small Game Hunters

Good luck to everyone heading out for small game this season. There’s nothing quite like hearing a beagle’s howl echo through the woods on a cold winter day as you wait for that rabbit to circle back around. Stay safe, enjoy the hunt, and best of luck out there.

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