Rabbits and parasites in southern Arizona

[hasenpfeffer]

We're starting to see daytime highs below 90F in southern Arizona, and I'm eager to slay some bunnies. Previously I've only hunted over 4,000 feet and after the first frost. But I read somewhere that rabbits in Arizona's desert regions have fewer parasites than elsewhere. This jives with what my vet told me about fleas and other pet parasites being rare in the Tucson valley.

Does anyone have first-hand knowledge of the edibility of summer rabbits in Arizona?

 

[AZBOBCAT]

I don't think rabbit in Tucson tastes good any time of year. Maybe around some of the farm fields out by my house in Avra Valley they would taste better now we are getting into better weather you should have better luck on the quality. I have not seen many healthy rabbits in the summer but I don't hunt them much only the occasional pest in my garden.

 

[hawken54]

We have a ton of young cottons here in Queen Creek, but they are awful small. Ive pegged a bunch of Jacks but the rabbits as a whole have been skinnier than normal. It was a tough summer up here. 19 days over 110, 5 straight at 115/116. After that hot spell we noticed a huge drop in P-dogs and rabbits. Not sure about your area but must be the same. Still the cottons are tastey, you just need an extra one or two. I go with the BER harvest for eating. septemBER, octoBER, novemBER decemBER. Never had an issue. Very little fleas and I take the young for eating.

 

[Dkubany86]

Hey Hawken54,

I Live in Mesa, AZ. I was wondering where in Queen Creek you go hunting. I'm looking to start hunting.

Thanks again for your help!

 

[hawken54]

Actually, I drive out to the Queen Valley/ Entrada Del Oro area for the rabbits. Its my patrol area so im familier with it. I have a horse property in QC with farm fields all around so if I dont get lucky, i just sit in my pasture as it gets dark. BAM, dinner in few minutes.

 

[Dkubany86]

Would you be willing to do a Google map for me? or a place you think would be good to start at?

 

[hawken54]

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zMPQEKHUlnXk.khGR2YWTdz2U&usp=sharing

I hope this works. I pull both Cotton Tails and Jacks out of here. Cottons usually 45 minutes before dark and 45 after sunup. Jacks are most prevalent that time but I jump them all day too.

 

[hawken54]

I opened the link, should work now.

 

[Dkubany86]

This is amazing thanks!

 

[Traveler]

Hawken- Nice Share!

DK - Good luck

 

[Dkubany86]

@hawken54 and good maps you.can share for squirrels near payson?

 

[Dkubany86]

Thanks again!