Home Range and Movements of the Eastern Cottontail in Kansas

"Home Range and Movements of the Eastern Cottontail in Kansas" by Donald W. Janes is a mid-20th-century study exploring the lives of Eastern Cottontail rabbits in Kansas, pinpointing their common areas and wandering habits to better understand how to manage their populations. Through careful observation and tracking on a 90-acre reserve, the research pinpoints that cottontails generally stick close to where they were born, establishing territories ranging from less than half an acre to over twelve acres, with the size depending on the rabbit's age, gender, and the time of year. The report uncovers that seeking food, hiding from danger, and mating behaviors are key drivers that influence how far these rabbits travel. It emphasizes that protecting and managing their habitats is vital for ensuring the well-being of these animals and the surrounding ecosystem.