What do rabbits eat in the drought?

Rabbits are versatile eaters and their diet depends on the availability of food sources in their environment. In times of drought, when the availability of fresh vegetation and water is scarce, rabbits may resort to consuming alternative sources of food to survive. Here are some of the things that rabbits might eat during a drought:

1. Dry vegetation: Rabbits may consume dried grasses, leaves, twigs, and bark from trees and shrubs. They can also feed on fallen fruits, seeds, and nuts that have managed to survive the drought conditions.

2. Stored food: If rabbits have stashes of food hidden away, such as nuts, seeds, or dried plants, they may rely on these stored supplies to sustain themselves during the drought.

3. Insects and small animals: In some cases, rabbits may resort to eating insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, and beetles. They might also consume small animals, such as rodents or lizards, if they can catch them.

4. Cacti and succulents: In areas where cacti and succulents grow, rabbits may consume these drought-resistant plants as a source of moisture and nutrients.

5. Tree bark and roots: Rabbits may gnaw on tree bark or dig up roots to obtain moisture and nutrients. This behavior is more common in times of food scarcity.

6. Water sources: Rabbits need water to survive, so they may seek out any available sources of water, such as puddles, ponds, streams, or even water dripping from faucets or irrigation systems.

It's important to note that droughts can have a significant impact on rabbit populations, as food and water become scarce. To support rabbits during these times, people may provide supplemental food and water sources to help them survive until the drought conditions improve.