Despite the rabbit’s reputation for prolific breeding, the New England cottontail is being considered for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, and is listed as state-endangered in Maine and New Hampshire. This rare rabbit requires dense, shrubby thickets for protection from predators. These habitats, often referred to as early-successional habitats, are becoming increasingly rare in New England. Concern over the decline in New England cottontail populations has sparked a range-wide, multi-state collaboration to help recover the species and preclude federal listing. In this presentation we’ll introduce you to the biology and habitat requirements of the New England cottontail. We’ll also discuss the challenges we’ve faced (and some lessons learned) in recruiting interested landowners, funding habitat management on private and public lands, and working collaboratively across local and state boundaries.
Comments (0)