Rabbits in Maryland: identification guide and where to start looking
Yes, rabbits are common and ubiquitous throughout Maryland, from the coastal plains of the Eastern Shore to the forested hills of the west. Identifying them requires looking for their long ears, powerful hind legs, and short, fluffy tails. They are most active at dawn and dusk and can be found in almost every backyard and park across the state.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 3
- species recorded
- June, May, July
- peak months
Lookalikes, source iNaturalist
How to tell a rabbit from its lookalikes in Maryland
Only one species of rabbit lives in Maryland, so the real question is telling it apart from its relatives. 2 other members of the rabbit and hare family have a verified observation record here, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The ones you are most likely to confuse it with are Eastern Cottontail and European Rabbit. Compare them below, ranked by how often each is recorded.
Records from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Diet, source GloBI
What rabbits eat
Recorded prey and food of the rabbit, from the Global Biotic Interactions database, limited to species that occur in the United States. This is what rabbits have actually been observed eating, not a list for any one place.
- Alsike clover
- buttonweed
- Clustered clover
- common dandelion
- common evening-primrose
- common jewelweed
- common milkweed
- common mugwort
- crimson clover
- dense blazing star
- eastern pricklypear complex
- Egyptian clover
- hop trefoil
- Japanese barberry
Feeding records from the Global Biotic Interactions (GloBI) database. Common names resolved from iNaturalist.
More on rabbits in Maryland:
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
6,460 verified observations on iNaturalist of rabbit have been recorded in Maryland, most often in June, May, July.
When rabbit are recorded in Maryland
Yes, rabbits are common and ubiquitous throughout Maryland, from the coastal plains of the Eastern Shore to the forested hills of the west. Identifying them requires looking for their long ears, powerful hind legs, and short, fluffy tails. They are most active at dawn and dusk and can be found in almost every backyard and park across the state.
What are the most common rabbit species in Maryland?
The Eastern cottontail is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. In the higher elevations of western Maryland, you may also find the Appalachian cottontail, which is very similar in appearance but prefers more forested and rugged habitats. Both are identifiable by their signature 'cotton' tail.
Where are the best places to see rabbits in Maryland?
Rabbits are found in almost any area with plenty of cover and green vegetation. Local parks like Rock Creek Park and the many state parks such as Patapsco Valley offer excellent viewing. They are also a common sight in residential yards and along the edges of agricultural fields. Check ourMaryland wildlife guidefor more location ideas.
How can you tell an Eastern cottontail apart from a domestic rabbit?
Eastern cottontails have a more slender build and a more uniform grayish-brown coat that provides excellent camouflage. Their ears are shorter and more proportional to their head than many domestic breeds. They also have a very wary and alert behavior, always ready to bolt at the first sign of danger. For more comparison, see ourrabbit identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of rabbits in Maryland?
Rabbits are highly social but also very cautious animals. They spend much of their time foraging for grasses, clover, and other plants. They are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk (crepuscular behavior) when they feel safer from predators. They are known for their incredible speed and their ability to zig-zag to escape danger.
Rabbit-themed gifts for animal lovers
If you enjoy the sight of rabbits in your yard, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Rabbit-Proof Garden Fencing []() A practical way to protect your plants while still enjoying the local wildlife. Designed to keep the rabbits out of your prize flowers. Check Price and Availability
When is the peak season for rabbits in Maryland?
Rabbits are active year-round in Maryland and do not hibernate. They are especially visible in the spring and summer during their peak breeding season when young rabbits (kits) are often seen exploring. In the winter, their tracks are a common sight in the snow as they continue to forage for food.
Are there different types of cottontails in Maryland?
Yes, while the Eastern cottontail is the most common, the Appalachian cottontail is a specialized species found in the mountains of western Maryland. It is slightly smaller and has more black hair around the edges of its ears. Identifying them in the field is difficult and often requires close examination of their habitat and subtle physical traits.
How can I attract rabbits to my Maryland yard?
Providing a mix of open lawn for foraging and dense brush piles or thickets for cover is the best way to attract rabbits. Planting clover and other favorite foods will also encourage them to visit. Avoid using harmful pesticides and provide a shallow water source to create a healthy environment for local rabbits.
What do rabbits eat in Maryland?
Rabbits in Maryland have a varied diet that includes grasses, clover, wildflowers, and the tender shoots of many plants. In the winter, they switch to eating the bark and twigs of woody plants like raspberry and sumac. They are highly efficient herbivores and play an important role in the local food web across the state.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common rabbit species in Maryland?+
The Eastern cottontail is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. In the higher elevations of western Maryland, you may also find the Appalachian cottontail, which is very similar in appearance but prefers more forested and rugged habitats. Both are identifiable by their signature 'cotton' tail.
Where are the best places to see rabbits in Maryland?+
Rabbits are found in almost any area with plenty of cover and green vegetation. Local parks like Rock Creek Park and the many state parks such as Patapsco Valley offer excellent viewing. They are also a common sight in residential yards and along the edges of agricultural fields. Check ourMaryland wildlife guidefor more location ideas.
How can you tell an Eastern cottontail apart from a domestic rabbit?+
Eastern cottontails have a more slender build and a more uniform grayish-brown coat that provides excellent camouflage. Their ears are shorter and more proportional to their head than many domestic breeds. They also have a very wary and alert behavior, always ready to bolt at the first sign of danger. For more comparison, see ourrabbit identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of rabbits in Maryland?+
Rabbits are highly social but also very cautious animals. They spend much of their time foraging for grasses, clover, and other plants. They are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk (crepuscular behavior) when they feel safer from predators. They are known for their incredible speed and their ability to zig-zag to escape danger.
When is the peak season for rabbits in Maryland?+
Rabbits are active year-round in Maryland and do not hibernate. They are especially visible in the spring and summer during their peak breeding season when young rabbits (kits) are often seen exploring. In the winter, their tracks are a common sight in the snow as they continue to forage for food.
Are there different types of cottontails in Maryland?+
Yes, while the Eastern cottontail is the most common, the Appalachian cottontail is a specialized species found in the mountains of western Maryland. It is slightly smaller and has more black hair around the edges of its ears. Identifying them in the field is difficult and often requires close examination of their habitat and subtle physical traits.
How can I attract rabbits to my Maryland yard?+
Providing a mix of open lawn for foraging and dense brush piles or thickets for cover is the best way to attract rabbits. Planting clover and other favorite foods will also encourage them to visit. Avoid using harmful pesticides and provide a shallow water source to create a healthy environment for local rabbits.
What do rabbits eat in Maryland?+
Rabbits in Maryland have a varied diet that includes grasses, clover, wildflowers, and the tender shoots of many plants. In the winter, they switch to eating the bark and twigs of woody plants like raspberry and sumac. They are highly efficient herbivores and play an important role in the local food web across the state.
Keep exploring
More places to see rabbit
More wildlife in Maryland
Common questions about rabbits