In spring, rabbits snip off young tender shoots of emerging tulip foliage and flower buds. In summer, rabbits visit vegetable gardens, nibbling on young vegetable plants. Damage is usually confined to row ends but rabbits feed in the middle of the row as well. During winter, rabbits chew off buds and stems of shrubs and other low growing plants. Favorites include gooseberry, alpine current, raspberry, roses, and azaleas.
Rabbits also chew on the bark of young trees especially fruit trees.
Damage is usually confined to 18 to 24 inches above ground or snow level. Stems are cut off cleanly, leaving a sharp 45-degree angle cut. Other tell-tail signs of a rabbit visit include elongated tracks in the snow and little piles of round brown droppings. Eliminating hiding places such as woodpiles, brush, brambles, tall grass, and weeds. Protecting shrubs and gardens with fencing.