Canteloupe

Question

I live in northern California. After several years of successfully growing canteloupe in raised beds, last year was a total failure. Just when the vines were beginning to run, something ate off the tips of every runner, which of course stopped the growth. This happened over two consecutive nights and in the next few a few mature leaves disappeared. I could see no tracks or droppings. Any idea what could have done it?

Answer 1

I have read that rabbits sometimes eat melon vines and leaves... It also sounds like something slugs and snails might do. Cucumber beetles eat melon plants, but I don't think they would act so fast and leave no trace.