Lately, I’ve been spotting Eastern Cottontail Rabbits out in the open more often. They’re present year-round, but during winter, I usually catch only quick glimpses of them as they stay hidden in dense vegetation or under cover to avoid predators.
Over the past few days, one rabbit has shown up in the same small area near my place in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. What stood out is how calm it seemed. I was able to get closer than usual without it bolting for cover. I also noticed a second rabbit using the same area, which could mean they are sharing a feeding spot or moving into early breeding season activity.
Even when they appear relaxed, these rabbits stay alert. Their ears never stop moving, and they rely on sharp hearing and fast reflexes to survive.
Photography Notes on Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Behavior
I found this rabbit close to home in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. It held still long enough for me to get a clean series of images, which is uncommon for a species known for sudden bursts of speed. The light was soft and even, which helped avoid harsh shadows and gave the scene a natural look.
I used a Canon EOS 7D Mark II with the Canon EF 100–400mm f/4.5–5.6L IS II USM lens and shot handheld. This setup kept me mobile and let me adjust my position without disturbing the rabbit. The image stabilization helped keep the shot sharp at full zoom.
Camera Settings
- Mode: AV
- Aperture: f/5.6
- ISO: 640
- Shutter Speed: 1/1600 sec
- Focal Length: 400mm
Wildlife Notes: Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Behavior
Eastern Cottontail Rabbits depend on cover for survival, especially during daylight hours when predators are active. Seeing one remain in the open for extended periods is unusual and often signals that the rabbit feels secure in the area.
During colder months, they focus on feeding whenever conditions allow. Open feeding areas near brush lines give them quick access to escape routes while still letting them reach grass and low plants. This balance between caution and opportunity is a key part of Eastern Cottontail Rabbit behavior.
Final Thoughts
Photographing wildlife in natural conditions always comes down to patience and timing. In this case, staying still and keeping a low profile allowed me to document a calm moment in the daily life of an Eastern Cottontail Rabbit.
I plan to keep watching this area to see if these rabbits continue using the same feeding zone. If they do, it could offer more chances to observe and photograph their seasonal behavior without disrupting their routine.