They are rarely found in dense forests or open grasslands. In summer, rabbits live in the shallow hollows of the ground in grass or weeds. There is no season of the year when rabbits' appetites do not cause some problems. They eat flowers and vegetables in spring and summer. In the fall and winter, they damage and kill valuable woody plants, particularly those in the rose family.
Some repellents are successful against rabbits.
A number of commercially available repellents contain the fungicide, thiram, and can be used against rabbits. One of the best methods of protection for the backyard garden is to build a fence. A fence of two-foot chicken wire with the bottom tight to the ground or buried a few inches is sufficient. Be sure the mesh is 1 inch or smaller so that young rabbits will not be able to get through it. Occasionally, chipmunks and squirrels will cause damage to the vegetable garden.