Welcome back, survivors! In this guide, we’ll be discussing rabbits—specifically how they serve as a viable food source in The Long Dark. Hunting or snaring rabbits may not be the most calorie-rich approach to survival, but they remain a solid supplemental option.

Hunting Rabbits

The easiest and most resource-efficient way to hunt rabbits is with stones. Though aiming can take some practice, a well-thrown stone will stun a rabbit long enough for you to walk over and break its neck. Here are a few quick tips:

• Approach rabbits while crouched to remain undetected.
• Align your path to cut off their straight running line.
• Once stunned, grab the rabbit and finish it.

Using more advanced tools like the rifle or bow is possible, but generally a waste of ammunition and effort given the low yield of rabbit meat.

Harvesting

After killing a rabbit, you’ll find it in your inventory under the food tab. A rabbit typically yields between 1.5 to 4.8 pounds of meat. Harvesting also gives you gut and a rabbit pelt—useful for crafting later.

Note: Carrying a freshly killed rabbit will trigger scent bars, potentially attracting nearby wolves. Plan accordingly.

Snaring Rabbits

Snaring is another method to gather rabbits, ideal if you want passive food collection. Here’s what you need:

• 1 Cured Gut
• 1 Reclaimed Wood

Once crafted, place snares in areas where rabbits naturally spawn, such as Jackrabbit Island. If the snare catches a rabbit, you’ll see it lying next to the trap. Pick it up and reset the snare. Snares can break, but they’re easy to replace using another cured gut and reclaimed wood.

Are Rabbits Worth It?

Yes—as a supplementary food source. Here’s why:

• Pros:
  • Easy to catch with low-tier tools
  • Great in emergencies
  • Passive food gathering while you do other tasks
• Cons:
  • Low calorie density (around 500 calories per kilo)
  • Overhunting can lead to temporary local depletion
  • Not efficient as a sole food source long-term

Rabbits are ideal to keep you going between bigger hunting trips or while waiting for weather to clear. Just remember to rotate hunting spots or alternate with other food methods to avoid depleting rabbit populations.

Scent and Wolves

Keep in mind that carrying rabbits gives off scent (indicated by scent bars), attracting wolves. Even one bar can lead wolves to you. Always be cautious when returning to base with rabbits in tow.

Final Thoughts

Rabbits offer a decent, renewable food source if used properly. Stoning is quick for emergencies, and snares can work in the background while you repair gear or explore. Just don’t rely solely on them unless absolutely necessary.

Stay safe and warm out there, survivors. And remember—if you’re starving and see a rabbit, a well-placed stone might be all that stands between you and survival.

• Lonely Wolf