Southwestern Small Game Adventure
New Mexico’s wide-open spaces, dry arroyos, sage flats, and desert brushlands offer excellent opportunities for rabbit hunting. With populations of cottontails and black-tailed jackrabbits thriving across the state, New Mexico provides hunters with exciting small game action in rugged, scenic country.
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Rabbit Species in New Mexico
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Desert Cottontail: Common throughout the state, especially in brushy desert and grassland habitats.
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Black-tailed Jackrabbit: Found in open desert plains, known for their speed and large size.
Season Dates and Licensing
Rabbit hunting season in New Mexico generally runs year-round with no closed season for rabbits or jackrabbits. Hunters must possess a valid small game hunting license. Always check the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) regulations for any area-specific rules or access restrictions.
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Best Areas for Rabbit Hunting
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Eastern Plains: Grasslands and arroyos near Clovis and Tucumcari offer great habitat.
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Chihuahuan Desert Region: Around Las Cruces and Carlsbad, desert brush and dry washes are prime spots.
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Central New Mexico: Rolling sagebrush and open piñon-juniper country around Socorro and Mountainair provide good hunting opportunities.
Public land access is abundant through BLM lands, national forests, and state trust lands (with a valid license). Driving suitable vehicles, such as four-wheel-drive or ATVs, is essential to access the different terrains within these hunting areas.
Best Time of Day to Hunt Rabbits
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for rabbit movement. During hotter months, rabbits tend to be more active at dawn and dusk to avoid the heat.
Tactics for Success
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Still-Hunting: Walk slowly through desert brush or along arroyos, scanning ahead for sitting rabbits.
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Spot-and-Stalk: Glass open flats early in the morning for rabbits feeding along edges.
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Jump Shooting: Walk through sagebrush or along dry creek beds to flush rabbits.
Jackrabbits require quicker reactions and longer shots across open ground, while desert cottontails stick closer to cover.
Gear for New Mexico Rabbit Hunting
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Firearms: 20 or 12 gauge shotguns are excellent for flushing shots. .22 rifles are perfect for careful, longer-range shooting.
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Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing for hot days, layers for cooler mornings, and blaze orange for visibility.
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Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable boots for rocky, uneven terrain.
Meat Care and Handling
Field dress rabbits promptly, especially during warm weather. Inspect the organs for any signs of disease and cool the meat quickly. Always cook rabbit and jackrabbit meat thoroughly to safe temperatures.
Conclusion
Rabbit hunting in New Mexico blends adventure, beautiful landscapes, and accessible small game action. Whether you’re stalking jackrabbits across open desert flats or sneaking through a brushy arroyo for cottontails, New Mexico’s vast public lands and forgiving seasons make it a rewarding destination for small game hunters.
FAQs
What license do I need to hunt rabbits in New Mexico?
A valid small game hunting license is required.
When does rabbit season open in New Mexico?
Rabbit hunting is open year-round with no closed season.
What guns are best for rabbit hunting?
Shotguns in 20 or 12 gauge for flushing rabbits and .22 rifles for precision shots.
Where can I find public land for rabbit hunting?
BLM lands, national forests, and state trust lands offer abundant access.
Is blaze orange required?
Blaze orange is recommended for safety, especially on public lands.
Can I hunt rabbits with a dog?
Yes, although it is less common in desert environments compared to thicker cover regions.
What time of day is best for hunting?
Early mornings and late afternoons are best.
How should I care for rabbit meat?
Field dress promptly, cool quickly, and cook thoroughly.
Are rabbits abundant in New Mexico?
Yes, especially in desert and grassland habitats.
Is rabbit hunting beginner-friendly?
Yes, it’s an excellent way to learn hunting skills and enjoy New Mexico’s open country.
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