The residents of Wilton Manors, Florida, have a problem with an animal that’s not native to their state.
Rather than Burmese pythons or even giant African snails, the troublesome animals are a species of rabbit called Lionhead rabbits.
Although they are cute, there have also been reports of the bunnies digging holes, chewing on outdoor wiring, and leaving droppings on sidewalks and driveways, according to the Associated Press. There are also concerns the rabbits will pose a traffic hazard if they venture out into busy streets.
As is usually the case with invasive species, the domesticated rabbits were illegally let loose by a backyard breeder when they moved.
The rabbits’ savior may be Alicia Griggs, who is leading efforts to raise $20,000–$40,000 for the rabbits. Those funds would be used to capture, neuter, vaccinate, shelter, and then give away the estimated 60–100 Lionheads now populating Jenada Isles, a community in Wilton Manors, just outside Fort Lauderdale.
“People don’t realize they’re exotic pets and they’re complicated,” Griggs said, the Associated Press reports. “They have a complicated digestive system and they have to eat a special diet. You can’t just throw any table scraps at them.”
All About Lionheads
Lionhead rabbits get their name from their distinctive mane resembling that of a male lion.
The rabbits, which weigh 2.5–3.75 pounds, generally live 8–10 years, according to Lionhead Rabbit Care.
“In general, the Lionhead temperament is friendly and this is a well-mannered pet,” Lionhead Rabbit Care explains. “They are very intelligent and it is possible to train them. They can comprehend certain orders like ‘come,’ ‘play’, and ‘eat.’”
What To Do With The Rabbits
The rabbits may be pesky, but Griggs and others working to help them also want to protect the rabbits from cats and hawks because the domesticated bunnies don’t know how to protect themselves. Plus, their shaggy fur puts them at risk of overheating during Florida’s ongoing heatwave.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has told Wilton Manors it won’t intercede because the rabbits don’t pose a threat to native wildlife. So far, the Wilton Manors Police Department hasn’t gotten involved either.
Wilton Manors has granted Griggs and other supporters time to raise money and relocate the rabbits rather than exterminate them.
In the meantime, although some residents have been feeding the rabbits, others think the bunnies have worn out their welcome.
Resident Jon King, for instance, says the rabbits have been digging in his yard and have chewed through outdoor wiring, which required replacing some outdoor lighting.
“Every morning, I get up and the first thing I do is cover up the holes and chase them out of the backyard,” King told the Associated Press.
“I like them, I just wish they would go somewhere else,” King said. “Rescue would be great.”
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