TEAM UNSTABLE MESSAGE BOARD

[scott]

Study on rabbits requires hunter participation

The DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a two-year study on cottontail rabbit ecology and population dynamics by examining the age structure, sex ratio, and reproductive status of hunter-harvested cottontail rabbits. This study will be used as a tool in helping the DFW better manage cottontail rabbit populations in Indiana. The last study of this kind in Indiana was undertaken between 1962-1970 at Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area in northeast Indiana.

To obtain the necessary data needed to complete this current study, hunters at six state-owned properties (listed below) will be required, under penalty of law, to check-in all harvested rabbits at the property headquarters from Oct. 1 to Nov. 13.

Atterbury FWA — (812) 526–2051
Glendale FWA — (812) 644–7711
J. Edward Roush Lake (Huntington Reservoir) — (260) 468–2165
Kingsbury FWA — (219) 393–3612
Mississinewa Reservoir — (765) 473–6528
Patoka Lake — (812) 685–2464

Hunters will only be required to check-in rabbits during daily business hours, including weekends, when the property headquarters are open. Each property will post specific check station hours. If the check station is closed before a hunter is out of the field, the hunter will not need to check-in his or her harvest, but must return his or her card as usual. At each check station, property staff will record physical data on each rabbit and collect tissue samples. Hunters will not be asked to provide their license or any personal information when checking their harvested rabbits.

For more information on check stations or rabbit hunting on these properties, please contact the specific property. For more information about this research project, contact the cottontail rabbit research coordinator, (812) 334–1137.