Based on 9,232 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Illinois, Eastern Cottontail is most often recorded in April; in Illinois it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #3 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Sylvilagus floridanus
Eastern Cottontail in Illinois by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Illinois in April
Eastern Gray Squirrel
White-tailed Deer
Common Raccoon
Eastern Fox Squirrel
Eastern Chipmunk
Muskrat
American Beaver
Virginia Opossum
Places to look in Illinois
State ParkCahokia
Botanical GardenMorton Arboretum
National ForestShawnee National Forest
Botanical GardenChicago Botanic Garden
Botanical GardenLadd Arboretum
State ParkStarved Rock State Park
FAQ
When does Eastern Cottontail appear in Illinois?
Mainly March–September, with the most records in April.
How common is Eastern Cottontail in Illinois?
It ranks #3 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in Illinois (9,232 records in our sample).