California Cottontail Rabbit Hunting
Regulations 2026

Eastern cottontails are the most hunted small game animal in North America, found in brushy edges, hedgerows, and suburban backyards coast to coast. They display a rusty-brown to grayish coat, white underside, and the distinctive fluffy white tail that gives them their name. When flushed, they bolt in sharp zigzag patterns rarely straying far from dense cover. Adults weigh 2-4 lbs. Beagles and rabbit dogs are the traditional pursuit method.