Attention well meaning people wanting to check on and feed the feral rabbits in Richmond and elsewhere: PLEASE KEEP YOUR DISTANCE! The Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease virus was spread in Nanaimo by people approaching and feeding the feral rabbits and spreading it to other rabbits in the area. Being in the direct vicinity of loose rabbits is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS PRACTICE AT THIS TIME! The virus is spread on shoes, tires, clothing, etc.. The rabbits are enjoying their spring grass, it’s rich in protein and it’s sweet, they honestly don’t need to be fed anything else and they’re not going to be overly interested in treats, anyway. Please stay away from them! Thank you!
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Domestic rabbits are notably underrepresented in academic research. So when we have the chance to participate in local studies, we jump!
UBC BSc graduate Silvija Grava recently published her findings from @bunnycafevancouver where she surveyed both guests and volunteers about their experiences and adoption interests.
The cafe has been an incredible resource for educating the public about rabbits and allowing for meaningful interactions that can (hopefully) translate to adoptions, though according to the study, only 2% of visitors were interested in adoption.
This survey backed what we expect in terms of bunny preferences - unique breeds, long coats, interesting colours, and social bunnies are fan favourites. Our shy and black-coated bunnies were marked as least preferred.
With that in mind, the study still showed some uplifting takeaways:
- 50% of respondents learned something new about rabbits!
- Personality and behaviour were the top indicators of respondents’ favourite rabbits (over breed or appearance)
- Every bunny, even the shyest, was marked as someone’s favourite
You can read the full study in The Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health: shorturl.at/DakrF
If you’re currently, or interested in, studying rabbits, we’re always game. Reach out at info@rabbitats.org and let’s chat bunnies.
PS: Watch for another UBC study coming soon, this time with our colony buns. We've had students and cameras continuously monitoring multiple enclosures at our Richmond headquarters for much of the past year. :)
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Indoor - Outdoor
Comfort - Stimulation
Alone time - Socialization
These bunnies are living the lives we’ve always wanted for them, given the dignity of choice.
They run, forage, explore, and snooze in total safety.
Dedicated volunteers ensure their space is clean and safe, making adjustments when the bunnies say so (more hides boxes please, move my litter box, we want more greens!).
This is how all feral domestic rabbits could live with the right support. 🤍 @kindred_farm
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