Rabbit

The Rabbit in Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption 2 is based on the black-tailed jackrabbit, Lepus californicus, a hare of the American Southwest rather than a true rabbit. It is a small, non-threatening herbivore whose diet includes vegetation, forbs, buds, twigs, bark and crops. The games present it as an animal that flees when disturbed, and in Red Dead Redemption 2 it is regarded as a pest because it feeds on crops.

Rabbits occur in almost every part of both games' worlds, occupying a range of habitats across the states. Their small size makes them easy to kill but difficult to keep in view, since they rarely remain still and run from nearby movement. In Red Dead Redemption, a single bullet from any weapon kills one, though powerful firearms can destroy the carcass. In Red Dead Redemption 2, the Varmint Rifle kills a rabbit cleanly in one shot without spoiling its pelt.

Hunted rabbits provide Rabbit Meat in Red Dead Redemption, and Game Meat and Rabbit Pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2. Pelts are used for crafting, while the meat can be cooked. John Marston helps Bonnie MacFarlane kill rabbits eating her garden during "New Friends, Old Problems", and Arthur catches one for food for himself and Hosea in "Exit Pursued by a Bruised Ego". Rabbits also count toward Sharpshooter and Master Hunter challenge requirements.