Alfalfa damage by jackrabbits in the Southern California deserts

Authors

Philip E. Bickler
V. H. Shoemaker

Authors Affiliations

Philip Bickler is an undergraduate student, Department of Biology, University of California at Riverside; V. H. Shoemaker is Associate Professor, Department of Biology, University of California at Riverside.

Publication Information

Hilgardia 29(7):10-12. DOI:10.3733/ca.v029n07p10. July 1975.

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Abstract

Jackrabbits are significant threats to alfalfa production only when their population density is high, usually in drought periods preceded by years of plentiful rainfall. Jack-rabbits living near alfalfa fields do not usually depend solely on alfalfa for nutrition, but individuals may consume up to 65 Ibs dry alfalfa per year when desert forage is unsuitable. Observations indicate that hares may travel over two miles at night to reach fields. Fencing fields with poultry wire offers complete control.