Is Late Afternoon A Good Time To Hunt Cottontails?

Time of Day and Cottontail Activity

Cottontails are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during twilight hours, which include late afternoon and early morning. During this time, they tend to move to areas with dense cover to escape the heat of the day and to forage for food. By hunting during late afternoon, you can increase your chances of spotting a cottontail, as they are more likely to be out in the open.

Hunting Techniques for Late Afternoon

To effectively hunt cottontails during late afternoon, it’s essential to use cover and movement to your advantage. Start by locating areas with dense cover, such as brush, thick grass, or weeds, and move slowly and quietly through these areas to avoid spooking the rabbits. Use a combination of walking and crawling to get close to the rabbits, and try to get downwind of them to avoid detection. You can also try calling the rabbits to you using a cottontail call or a mouth call, which can be an effective way to lure them out of their hiding spots.

Tips for Hunting in Late Afternoon

When hunting cottontails in late afternoon, it’s crucial to pay attention to the weather conditions. Avoid hunting during strong winds or heavy rain, as these conditions can make it difficult to locate and track the rabbits. Also, be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of rabbit activity, such as tracks, droppings, or burrows. Use a good pair of binoculars to scan the area for rabbits, and try to get a shot when they are in a clear shooting lane.