The Town of Imagination for Rabbits 

Rabbit Rescue Summary

1. Rescue Plan: Before rescuing a rabbit, have a plan for its destination (shelter, rescue group, etc.) and communicate with local organizations.

2. Health Check: Conduct a health assessment immediately after rescue and take precautions to prevent contamination.

3. Pregnancy Awareness: Assume adult females may be pregnant, especially if found with unaltered males.

4. Pre-Rescue Questions: Confirm the exact sighting location, ensure the requester is local, and verify transportation to a shelter.

5. Essential Tools: Carry open-top carriers, x-pens, nets, and treats (like banana) for effective rescue.

6. Rabbit Behavior: Understand that rabbits are fast and skittish, often hiding. They are most active at dawn and dusk.

7. Rescue Rules: Stay focused, alert, and maintain visual contact with the rabbit throughout the rescue.

8. Team Roles:

   • Rescue Leader: Coordinates the operation.
   • Spotter: Keeps eyes on the bunny.
   • X-Pen Holders: Secure x-pens.
   • Rabbit Herders: Guide rabbits towards safety.
   • Public Relations: Communicates with onlooker
9. Team members: The number of people can be from 1 to many. Ask for help from people walking in the area.
10. . Ask people: Have you seen a bunny?  The bunny is a domestic  who cannot live outside. I am trying to rescue the rabbit.

 

Road Side Rabbit Rescue

Over 15 years ago, we rescued our first rabbit from the sidewalk using our own bare hands. At that time, we were involved in a significant rabbit rescue alongside three other 501(c)(3) nonprofit rabbit rescue organizations, during an era before Google and most social media platforms existed.

Since then, we have rescued hundreds of rabbits. I have honed my skills in this area, developing various techniques and accumulating essential items to assist in rescuing "dumped" rabbits. The purpose of this page is to share some of the knowledge I have acquired, which is often highly sought after.

The rescue itself is the easy part. Once the bunny is secured, you need to consider several important steps:

1. Have a Rescue Plan: Before attempting a rescue, you must have a plan in place regarding where to take the rabbit. This plan may involve bringing the rabbit to a local shelter, a rabbit rescue group, a friend, or keeping it yourself. Establishing a plan is common sense and a courtesy—especially to shelters and nonprofit rescue groups that have been overwhelmed for quite some time. This significantly alleviates stress for both the rescuer and the local rescue organizations.

We have collaborated with both local shelters and Animal Control during rescues, informing them of the situation and our intent to bring the bunny to the shelter. We also provide details on the Nose2Tail check and the bunny's sex. When called upon by local 501(c)(3) rabbit rescue groups, we either transfer the bunny to their care or coordinate logistics for the rescue with the shelter.

2. Perform a Nose2Tail Health Check: Immediately after the rescue, it is vital to conduct a health check on the rabbit. Knowing its sex and identifying any basic medical concerns is essential before proceeding with your rescue plan. When you return home, enter via the garage or backyard, and put your clothes directly into the wash to prevent bringing in RHDV2, fleas, and other contaminants. You will see the Nose2Tail guide link at the top of this page.
3. Assume Adult Females are Pregnant: You should operate under the assumption that adult females are pregnant, especially if they were rescued with unaltered males. Unspayed female rabbits can deliver in just 28 days, marking the day of rescue as Day 1. If the rabbit was first seen with other rabbits ten days prior, then that day counts as Day 11. It is crucial to spay any rescued unfixed female rabbit as soon as possible.

When I am asked to assist with roadside rabbit rescues, I ask the following questions:

1. What is the Exact Location and When Was the Bunny Last Seen? Roadside rabbit rescue is a “real-time” activity; the closer to the actual time of sighting, the better. I will Google the address to assess the area, considering factors like street traffic, safety, and the size of nearby parks. There are often known sites where rabbits are "dumped."
2. Do You Live in the Area, and Can You Be Present for the Rescue? If the area is residential, it is essential that the person requesting help resides there. I cannot rush to a location without a valid reason. It is important for the person to affirm, “I LIVE here,” and confirm that the rabbit was indeed "dumped." Familiarity with the area and its inhabitants is crucial, as I have had to turn over rescued bunnies to individuals living nearby.
3. If Rescued, Will You Take the Bunny to a Local Shelter? I am not a rabbit rescue group; I need assurance that the individual requesting help will transport the bunny to the local shelter. If the request comes from a rescue group, that is a different scenario, as I have previously coordinated rescues where the bunny was fostered by the group.

Basic Tools

 

The essential items include an open-top carrier (preferably with a shoulder strap), x-pens, a net, and a banana. It’s understood that you may not have all these items, but securing the bunny in your car is possible. Once the bunny is safe, it can be placed in a box or similar container.

X-pens come in 24" and 30" sizes, and I prefer the 24" versions due to their weight. Typically, I bring 3 to 5, and when necessary, up to 15 (I have gradually acquired x-pens from garage sales and flea markets). Additionally, I have "baby x-pens" for kits, as standard x-pens may be too large for them. For situations involving dense brush, I also possess 8" x- pens. While you may not always be able to bring an x-pen into the brush, the 8" guinea pig pens can be helpful.

You can use the net (which costs about $5 at a flea market) if the bunny is trying to escape. Position yourself on the side of the bunny rather than behind it. Place the net slightly ahead of the bunny, ensuring one side is on the ground so that the bunny may hop into it. If the net is not resting on the ground, the bunny may attempt to dart underneath it. If you find yourself behind the bunny, ensure the net is poised just ahead of the bunny.

If you observe the bunny, you might use pieces of banana to entice it to stay in one spot. You can approach the bunny slowly on your knees, taking tiny steps. If it is busy eating or grooming, it may not notice you right away. Walking upright towards the bunny could cause it to flee. Gently lower the net above the bunny and then bring it straight down.

Nets can potentially harm the bunny, as its limbs may become entangled in the netting. You should NEVER attempt to lift the bunny with the net. Instead, you must secure it by placing your hands gently on it. Wait for others to assist in transferring the bunny into the carrier. Ideally, the most experienced person with rabbits should handle the transfer. You may need to cut the net or have someone hold it while another person frees the bunny’s paws or legs.

 

Always keep water and a bowl in your car; you never know when they will be needed. If you leave the rescue site, ensure there is food (pellets) and water available for the bunny. Leaving a water bottle with the hope that others will refill it is a good idea, along with a kind note.

 

Rescue To Go Kit along with x-pens, carrier, card board carriers ready for the Rescue Call

1. A towel or similar item to block exit routes (such as holes in the fence).
2. Limited x-pens, with the net utilized to cover escape routes outside of the x-pen trap; this could involve a large fence with an opening at the bottom.
3. Realistic-looking stuffed rabbits can be used to lure them out, such as offering greens for eating.
4. Zip ties.
5. PVC pipe or a golf ball retriever to help coax the bunny from a bush.
6. Scissors for cutting the net when necessary, and for other purposes.
7. Vine/wire cutters to navigate through brush.
8. A shovel, just in case you need to dig.
9. Extra clips for the x-pen.
10. String for traps.
11. Wire.
12. Duct tape.
13. Ties or similar items.
14. Short PVC pipe for traps.

 

1, binoculars (you have a large area to cover like a park or similar open space (hop over to high ground to look)

2. flashlight (your are looking for their eyes)

You are really into rescue

1. Night Vision Binoculars. We used this to see trigger the trap at night if the bunny was inside.  The location had no light other then moon light.

2. pipe inspection camera (used to look in possible underground rabbit's nesting burrows). You don't want to put your hand into burrow without knowing what is inside. I have used this several times to see kits deep inside of the burrow. We then had to dig them out.

3.  Thermal Monocular. Latest item added due to winter rescue for use with no light late at night.

You are at the top of rescue

You have a Thermal Wildlife Camera connected to your smart phone. The Town's Friend is a key dog rescue person who helps out on rabbit rescue.  She used this at a public preserve (closed to the public at night) to help us rescue Mom and 6 kits who were dumped. We were able to establish the Mom's and the number of kits using her camera. We knew the number and when they would hop out. It took us a few months to rescue the Mom and kits. We worked with the local shelter, Animal Control Officers and Park Rangers. All of the kits and Mom found their Forever Homes.

Feeding Station

Establishing a feeding station with water and food for the rabbit is crucial. This feeding station will likely serve as the sole source of sustenance for the rabbit and should be discreetly located away from public view in an area known to be frequented by the rabbit. You may also consider setting up a wildlife camera connected to your cell phone to capture short video clips whenever something approaches it.

Basic Rabbit Behavior:

1. Rabbits are faster than humans and can change direction instantly.
2. If you approach a rabbit, it will typically hop in the opposite direction.
3. Rabbits tend to escape along the fence line or hop across the street, often seeking refuge under cars or in dense brush.
4. In a large rescue scenario, the first rabbits are usually the easiest to catch, while the last ones can take days or even weeks.
5. Rabbits learn quickly what you are doing and how to evade capture; they will recognize the sounds associated with x-pens and the presence of people.
6. Skittish rabbits will flee at the first sight of a human.
7. If a rabbit encounters an x-pen, it may hop backward or along the side, giving you only a split second to grab it.
8. You cannot pick up and hold a rabbit; instead, you must secure it gently without causing harm. The goal is to immobilize the bunny with your hands or with the net on the ground.
9. Rabbits tend to be most active at dawn, dusk, and late at night.
10. If a rabbit is caught, it may emit a loud scream, a high-pitched sound that is unforgettable, but you must remain calm and hold on.

Rescue Rules for Bunny Rescues

General Guidelines

1. Focus on Life or Death: Remember, rescuing the bunny is a matter of life and death.

2. Stay Alert: Minimize distractions. Silence your phone and keep conversations to a minimum, as rabbits are sensitive to noise.

3. Follow Directions: Pay attention to the instructions given by the rescue leader.

4. Keep Scanning: Continuously look around. Rabbits often hide under bushes, cars, and other cover.

5. Maintain Visual Contact: Once you see the bunny, keep your eyes on it. Do not approach directly, and communicate its location to the team.

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Game Plan for the Rescue Team

Roles and Responsibilities

1. Rescue Leader: Assigns tasks and coordinates the team during the rescue.

2. Spotter: This key role involves keeping constant visual contact with the bunny. Always stay aware of its location without getting too close, and inform the team of any changes.

3. Baby Bunnies: Energetic members who can help transport heavy x-pens to set up the rescue area. Be ready to move multiple x-pens over long distances.

4. X-Pen Holders: Essential for securing the x-pens. These team members will hold the ends and middle sections to prevent rabbits from escaping.

5. Rabbit Herders: Tasked with guiding the bunny toward the x-pens. Position yourself strategically, keeping in mind that rabbits often move in the opposite direction of the herder.

6. Public Relations Person: Engages with the public to explain the rescue efforts and address any concerns. Direct people away from the area and be prepared to answer questions.

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Possible Public Concerns

• What are you doing? Who are you?
• How did you hear about the rabbits?
• Where will they go if caught?
• They’ve been here for months; they’re fine?
• They belong to someone down the street?
• I saw you on my property; I’m calling the police!

Rescue Game Plan

 

Rabbit Rescue Procedure

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Set Up the X-Pens: Arrange the x-pens in a zigzag pattern to create a "C" or "horseshoe" shape. Place them close to the bunny and make use of any nearby walls or fences for support. If the bunny is hiding under a bush, car, or similar cover, try to encircle it with the x-pens.

2. Begin Herding: Once the x-pens are in place, start herding the bunny toward them. It's best to have several people involved, as rabbits are fast and can cover a lot of ground quickly. If the bunny stops, take a moment to rest as well.

3. Spotter Responsibilities: The spotter must always keep visual contact with the bunny from a distance.

4. Prepare for Capture: When the bunny approaches the x-pens, team members in the second line (behind the lead) should be ready with nets.

5. Lead the Capture: The lead person will notify the team when they are about to try to catch the bunny. They should clearly communicate their position and direct the team on where to move, especially if the bunny changes direction. For instance, if the bunny moves to the right, the lead should guide others accordingly to keep the bunny within the trap area.

Bunny Rescue at the Public Park

We recently rescued a bunny at a large public park along the bay. The rescue was challenging due to the hillside and dense brush, which made it difficult to guide the bunny into the x-pens. The spotter was able to follow the bunny and saw it resting under some brush. We had only one chance to act; if the bunny moved under the elevated walkway behind the brush, our opportunity would be lost.

As the spotter positioned at the top of the walkway, I directed the placement of the x-pens using the "Baby Bunnies" team.

1. Dropping the X-Pens: We dropped the x-pens from the walkway. Team members then moved them to secure the area.

2. Placement Around the Bush: The x-pens were placed on the sides of the bush, away from the bunny.

3. Setting Up in Front: X-pens were positioned in front of the bunny.

4. Securing the Area: We moved some of the x-pens (8 to 10) closer once we were confident they were securely surrounding the large brush.

5. Monitoring Exit Routes: Three people were stationed on the sides of the x-pens, away from the walkway, to cover possible escape routes and help secure the bunny.

6. Inside the Brush: I entered the brush with my net, along with another person who also went in.

7. Defining Positions: We identified the positions of the x-pens by naming the people assigned to each side.

8. Tracking Movements: The person tasked with coaxing the bunny out of the bush communicated its movements to us.

9. Keeping Eyes on the Bunny: I informed the team when I had visual contact with the bunny.

10. Successful Capture: Although the bunny managed to slip through the net, it then hopped into the x-pen, allowing us to successfully secure it.

Rescue of the Last Bunny

We spotted the last bunny at the edge of the parking lot, nestled in a bush. This bush was pressed against a large fence on one side, and we believed the bunny wouldn’t go through or under it.

1. Setting Up the X-Pens: We placed the x-pens from the fence to the street and then back to the fence.

2. Securing the X-Pens: The x-pens were securely attached to the fence.

3. Maintaining Distance: We decided not to move the x-pens closer because the street was solid and flat. Rabbits can push up the x-pens and hop underneath them.

4. Bunny's Location: The bunny was deep in the bush, with no clear pathways for us to access it.

5. Using PVC Pipes: We utilized 5-foot PVC pipes that we had brought along to help flush the bunny out.

6. First Capture: We successfully caught the bunny as it was flushed out and netted.

7. Transfer Mistake: During the transfer from the net to the top-opening carrier, we made a mistake, and the bunny managed to escape.

8. Second Attempt: We spent the next hour repeating the process and eventually caught the bunny again using the same method.

9. Learning from Experience: For the final transfer, we placed an x-pen around both the bunny and the carrier to ensure a smoother transition.

 

 

Good Samaritan Bunny Rescue

A Good Samaritan had been trying to rescue a bunny for over two weeks. The bunny was located in a shopping complex with a large brush area in the back. Despite her efforts with several others, they were unable to capture the bunny. After we connected, she shared her plan to foster the bunny for a local shelter if it was rescued. I gathered information about the bunny's behavior and known exit routes based on her previous experience. She kept an eye on the bunny until I arrived an hour later.

Our plan was to follow the standard procedure of placing x-pens around the bunny. As I began setting up the x-pens on the far side, she continued to monitor the bunny. I folded the x-pen to secure it against the brush, placing it away from the bunny. She updated me if the bunny moved or if the sounds from the x-pens startled it. I then positioned the x-pens on her side, creating a secure area with x-pens on three sides and a wall on the fourth.

She successfully flushed the bunny toward me, and I captured it with my hands as it attempted to move the x-pens.

Keeping eyes on the bunny throughout the rescue is crucial. Understanding the bunny's potential actions and being familiar with the site are essential. Additionally, having your rescue tools ready to go is very helpful.

Sit and wait with a string trap or drop trap

Using Traps for Difficult Rabbit Rescues

For challenging rabbits that are hard to rescue, a trap may be necessary. Before setting up the trap, create a feeding station nearby. This station will provide food and water for the rabbit and help you observe it in a familiar area. You can use several methods to set up the trap with a string:

1. Wooden Support: Use a piece of wood held up by a small stick or PVC pipe (see first picture).

2. Drop Trap: Create a "drop trap" where the PVC pipe supports a small piece of an x-pen or a similar object (see second picture).

3. Stability: Ensure that the trap components are stable and won't tip over. Use a brace to keep everything upright.

4. Trigger Mechanism: Attach a string to trigger the trap. A dog leash can also work well for this purpose (see third picture).

5. Baiting the Trap: Place greens, bananas, or similar treats in the center of the trap, surrounded by x-pens.

Once the trap is set, sit quietly without moving. Rabbits are very alert and can hear or see any movement. Think about your next steps after the trap is triggered, as rabbits are quite intelligent.

Important Considerations:

1. Rabbit Awareness: Rabbits may retreat if they see the string being pulled.

2. Scent Detection: They can smell your hand on the trap or x-pens, which might scare them away.

3. Quick Reactions: If a rabbit senses danger, it may hop back to its entry point after the trap is set. Be ready to move quickly.

Alternative Trap Options:

• Use a large carrier with the string tied to the door.
• An x-pen with a door and the string attached can also be effective.
• You can set up a large x-pen trap and wait for the bunny to enter. Once it does, close off the entry point.