Why Hunt Rabbits with Ferrets?
Ferreting works because it uses a ferret’s natural instinct to explore burrows. When a ferret enters a rabbit warren, the rabbit typically bolts—giving hunters a controlled, fast-action opportunity.
Benefits include:
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Extremely effective in areas with dense rabbit populations
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Low-impact on habitat compared to other methods
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Works in tight cover and burrow-heavy ground
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Ideal for small acreage, farms, and permission properties
Ferreting is also one of the few methods where teamwork between humans, dogs, and ferrets creates a highly productive small-game experience.
Understanding Rabbit Behavior
Knowing how rabbits use the land is essential for placing nets, positioning shooters, and working ferrets safely.
Daily Patterns
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Early morning & late afternoon: Rabbits feed in open cover
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Midday: Most return to burrows or thick vegetation
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Cold or wet days: Rabbits often stay underground longer
Warren Structure
Rabbits build complex tunnel networks with:
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Multiple entrances and exits
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Emergency escape holes
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Chambers for resting and nesting
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Interconnected tunnels branching in several directions
Recognizing active warrens—fresh droppings, tracks, clipped vegetation—helps you target productive areas.
Essential Gear for Ferreting
Ferrets
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Use well-handled, tame ferrets accustomed to working underground
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Both hobs and jills work well—jills are often preferred for lighter builds
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A ferret finder/tracker collar is strongly recommended to locate ferrets below ground
Nets
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Purse nets for individual holes
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Long nets for surrounding larger warrens
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Pegs or stakes for securing nets
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Hi-vis tags or rings to reduce tangling
Additional Gear
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Small spade or trowel (only for emergencies—never dig unnecessarily)
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Game bag or vest
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Gloves for handling nets and brush
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Lightweight boots for quick movement
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Dog (optional) for retrieving bolted rabbits or marking holes
Techniques for Hunting Rabbits with Ferrets
1. Identify Active Warrens
Look for:
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Fresh droppings
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Recently clipped grass
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Worn runs between holes
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Fresh soil around entrances
Activate only the holes you intend to work, and block inactive ones if necessary.
2. Set Your Nets Properly
Purse Nets
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Place directly over each hole
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Ensure the mesh hangs freely
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Peg securely so bolting rabbits are cleanly caught
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Space evenly with no gaps
Long Nets
Best for:
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Large warrens
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Open fields
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Situations with many untangleable entrances
Stretch the net around the warren perimeter and secure the ends.
3. Enter the Ferret
Once nets are placed, gently slip the ferret into a chosen hole.
Key tips:
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Stay quiet—ferrets work best in calm environments
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Give the ferret time to move through the tunnels
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Listen for movement underground
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Expect bolts quickly in active warrens; sometimes there’s a short delay
4. Handle the Bolt
When the rabbit bolts:
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Stay alert and face active holes
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Purse nets will tangle the rabbit as it hits the mesh
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Move quickly to dispatch humanely
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Reset or tighten any disturbed nets
If using a dog, release only when the rabbit clears the warren safely.
5. Recover the Ferret
After rabbits stop bolting:
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Wait a few minutes—rabbits can hide in inner chambers
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Use a ferret finder to locate underground ferrets
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Call or lightly tap the ground to encourage return
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Retrieve calmly and reward with handling, food, and water
Well-trained ferrets typically return once the warren is empty or the work is done.
Field Tips for Better Results
Work With the Wind
Ferrets don’t need wind advantage, but rabbits often bolt toward downwind entrances. Net these with extra attention.
Control Noise
Quiet operations reduce stress and keep rabbits from “sitting tight.”
Avoid Overworking Ferrets
Frequent breaks help maintain performance, especially on warm days.
Travel Light
Ferreting involves moving fast between warrens—streamline your gear.
Safety Best Practices
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Use tracker collars to avoid losing ferrets underground
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Never dig blindly—only where the tracker indicates
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Keep ferrets cool and hydrated
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Handle rabbits humanely and quickly
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Maintain control of dogs around ferrets
Why Book a Guided Ferreting Hunt
A skilled guide can offer:
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Access to high-density rabbit grounds
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Experienced ferrets and trained dogs
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Proper net setups and techniques
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Instruction for beginners
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Safe, ethical, and efficient hunts
Compare small-game or unique hunting experiences through Find A Hunt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ferrets harm rabbits underground?
Typically no. Ferrets pressure rabbits into bolting rather than fighting.
What’s the best time of year to ferret?
Cool-season days are ideal—ferrets work best in cooler temperatures.
Do I need a dog for ferreting?
Not required, but dogs help retrieve escaping rabbits and mark active holes.
How long does a ferreting session last?
Most warrens produce bolts within minutes, but full sessions may last a few hours depending on terrain and rabbit density.
Are long nets better than purse nets?
Long nets shine over large warrens; purse nets excel for precision setups.
Ready to try ferreting or upgrade your rabbit hunting opportunities? Compare outfitters and plan your hunt through Find A Hunt.
