Crabapples, burning bush, viburnums, yews and junipers are favored foods of both voles and rabbits during the winter months.

Management: Prune out badly damaged branches. If main stems are damaged, wait awhile before pruning to see if the injured tree or shrub will recover. Baited snap traps or rodenticides placed in runways can help control existing vole populations. Place baits in secure bait stations to prevent injury to non-target animals.

Remove groundcover or mulch from around the base of trees and shrubs (3 feet away) to reduce protective cover for voles. Wrap trunks with tree wrap or hardware cloth to protect against girdling. Remove tree wrap after weather warms.

To protect plants from rabbits, fencing should be at least two feet tall, with a one-inch mesh. Secure fencing with stakes or bury it a few inches in the ground to prevent rabbits going underneath. Repellents can be effective for limited periods of time, but may need to be reapplied frequently due to weathering.