As natural prey animals, rabbits have to look out for a whole host of animal predators.
Among the most common rabbit hunters are larger mammal predators such as wolves, silent and deadly birds of prey and even a few dangerous reptiles that eat rabbits.
So, what about coyotes? Do coyotes eat bunnies or do these opportunistic hunters prefer other game?
Will A Coyote Attack A Rabbit
The coyote is a member of the Canidae family, which is the same family as domesticated dogs. Their natural range is wide and includes the various plains, deserts, and forests of North America.
Coyotes are natural omnivores, eating just about anything they can hunt and find, including:
- Rabbits
- Rodents
- Fruits
- Insects
- Eggs
- Reptiles
- Amphibians
- Flowers
Without doubt, a coyote will attack and eat a rabbit. In fact, rabbits are found in all environments that coyotes inhabit. As such, coyotes and rabbits share a natural predator/prey relationship.
Why Do Coyotes Eat Bunnies
Rabbits are small mammals that are easily hunted by coyotes, who prefer to stalk and pounce on their prey.
Rabbits are also very plentiful, thanks to bunny’s quick gestation period and large litters.
Do Coyotes Eat Rabbits Whole
After a kill, coyotes eat all parts of their prey.
A coyote will ingest some fur, feathers, and enjoy the bones of their prey alongside the meat without issue.
In this sense coyotes do eat rabbits whole, although they will not devour the rabbit in one bite!
Coyote vs Rabbit
It is true that wild rabbits can defend themselves with their sharp claws, teeth, and kicking legs. However, these defense mechanisms do not usually deter or fend off a hungry coyote.
And when it comes to domestic rabbits, who are not used to harsher life in the wild or to protecting themselves, coyotes are even more of a threat.
A coyote vs rabbit situation doesn’t usually end well for the rabbit in the wild, and if it is a coyote against your domestic rabbit, your rabbit is sure to lose.
How to Protect Rabbits From Coyotes
Protecting your homestead or pet rabbits from coyotes is best accomplished by housing your bunnies indoors or within a fenced off area.
This can look like placing your rabbit hutches in a well sealed shed, garage, or even inside your house.
Now if you live in coyote habitat but prefer to keep your bunnies outside, installing a well-made metal fence around your rabbits living area, that is at least 6-8ft high, will do wonders in deterring curious or hungry coyotes from nosing around your hutches.
Finally, protect your rabbits from coyotes by not allowing them to wander or roam in your local park, yard, or wild area unaccompanied or in late evening or night.
How Do You Tell If A Coyote Killed A Rabbit?
Coyotes leave signs of their diet in the scat. If they have killed and eaten a rabbit there will be rabbit fur and bits of rabbit bone in their scat.
Otherwise, it may be hard to determine just what predator killed the rabbit; although coyotes don’t usually leave any bits left uneaten and are more likely to bury extras for later.
As natural prey animals, there are a whole host of potential culprits if you come across a dead rabbit!
Rabbit Distress Call For Hunting Coyotes
Here is something related but different. This video shows a hunter using the sound of a distressed rabbit to lure in coyotes so he can shoot them. If you’re a fan of coyotes, then please don’t watch this video.
Frequently Asked Questions Related To Does A Coyote Eat Rabbit
Will A Coyote Attack A Rabbit?
Yes a coyote will attack a rabbit as they share a natural predator/prey relationship. However, coyotes do not hunt for fun and will only attack a rabbit when hungry or when trying to feed its young.
Do Coyotes Eat Rabbits and Squirrels?
Yes, coyotes are opportunistic omnivores that will enjoy both rabbits and squirrels as small but easy meals.
Final Thoughts On Does A Coyote Eat A Rabbit
Your homestead and pet rabbits are naturally hunted by an array of rabbit predators.
Remember to always house your rabbits properly and take significant precaution when allowing them to roam in outdoor areas, especially if the surroundings are new.
The last thing we want is for your bunny to fall prey to a hungry coyote!