Mating Cottontail Rabbits and Backyard Birds

On July 5, 2024, I decided to stay home and photograph the birds and other wildlife from my deck here in Arkansas. Before I even stepped outside to set up my camera, I heard the unmistakable ruckus of Blue Jays near the bird feeder and birdbath. Their calls were clear as day—they wanted me to hurry and put out sunflower seeds and refill the birdbath with fresh water. Knowing how demanding they can be, I quickly cleaned and filled everything before settling in to photograph from the deck.

Early Visitors: The Downy Woodpeckers

Despite the Blue Jays’ urgency, they weren’t the first to arrive. That honor went to the Downy Woodpeckers, who showed up at the suet feeder.

Eastern Bluebird Nesting

I watched both the male and female Eastern Bluebirds check on the eggs in the birdhouse, and the female went in to sit on her eggs. I do see her leave a few times, but she doesn’t stay gone for long. If these eggs hatch, it will be the third time this year and a first for my yard. I feel for them trying to hatch and raise young in this heat. Once again, it’s going to be in the 90s.

Delightful House Finch and Tufted Titmouse

A House Finch soon arrived to enjoy some sunflower seeds. They always seem to know exactly where I need them to perch for a perfect photo, making them a delight to photograph.

I also captured a young Tufted Titmouse feeding from the suet feeder. It was fascinating to see it removing some suet from between its toes—a rare and awesome moment to photograph.

A Surprise Encounter: Cottontail Rabbits

As if the birds weren’t enough, I also spotted four cottontail rabbits in the yard. Two of them decided to come close and, to my surprise, started mating. This was my first time witnessing such behavior, and getting a photo was a bonus.

Cottontail Rabbit Mating Behavior

Cottontail rabbits typically breed from February through September. They are known for their prolific breeding habits, often having multiple litters per year. The mating process involves a brief courtship, where the male and female engage in a series of hops and chases. Once the female accepts the male, they mate quickly. After a gestation period of about 28 to 30 days, the female gives birth to a litter of up to 12 kits, although the average is around 4 to 6. The kits are born blind and hairless, but they develop rapidly and are usually weaned by three weeks of age.

Observing these behaviors up close is a reminder of the intricate lives and natural rhythms of the wildlife in our own backyards. Whether it’s the demanding calls of the Blue Jays, the diligent Downy Woodpeckers, or the unexpected appearance of mating rabbits, each moment offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating world of nature.