Based on 6,130 research-grade iNaturalist observations in North Carolina, Eastern Cottontail is most often recorded in May; in North Carolina it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #3 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Sylvilagus floridanus
Eastern Cottontail in North Carolina 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 North Carolina in May
Eastern Gray Squirrel
White-tailed Deer
American Black Bear
Common Raccoon
Groundhog
Eastern Chipmunk
Virginia Opossum
Wapiti
Places to look in North Carolina
Botanical GardenCoker Arboretum
Botanical GardenDaniel Stowe Botanical Garden
State ParkFort Macon State Park
State ParkHanging Rock State Park
State ParkCrowders Mountain State Park
Botanical GardenNorth Carolina Botanical Garden
FAQ
When does Eastern Cottontail appear in North Carolina?
Mainly April–August, with the most records in May.
How common is Eastern Cottontail in North Carolina?
It ranks #3 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in North Carolina (6,130 records in our sample).