The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre in Manitoba is urging the public to refrain from bringing in baby bunnies that appear abandoned, as many are actually healthy and being cared for by their mothers.
Common Misconceptions About Baby Bunnies
Amy Wilkie from the centre explains that people often mistake normal bunny behavior for distress. Baby rabbits leave the nest at a young age and may seem vulnerable, but they are typically under parental supervision. Wilkie advises that unless a bunny is visibly injured, cold, or in immediate danger from predators, it should be left alone.
When to Intervene
Only rescue a bunny if it shows clear signs of injury, such as bleeding or broken bones, or if it is lying on its side and unable to move. Additionally, if the nest has been destroyed or the mother is known to be dead, intervention may be necessary. In such cases, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
The centre receives numerous calls each spring about seemingly orphaned bunnies, but most are healthy. Wilkie emphasizes that well-meaning rescuers can do more harm than good by removing healthy animals from their natural environment.
For more information, visit the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre's website or call their hotline.
