There are eight rabbit and hare species in California. The most common species are the black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii), and brush rabbit (S. bachmani). Rabbits and hares look very similar, but there are several key differences. Hares live above ground and their young are born with open eyes and fur. Rabbits live in burrows and their young are born helpless, without fur, and eyes closed.
Potential conflict with rabbits or hares can occur due to agricultural or property damage when searching for food or digging burrows, and human health or safety concerns due to disease transmission (e.g., plague, rabbit hemorrhagic disease).
Prevent Potential Conflicts