Record number of baby bunnies at animal sanctuary

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust said there was 25 baby rabbits currently in its care

An animal rescue centre says it has got a record number of baby rabbits in its care, with more on the waiting list.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust in Plymouth said there were 25 babies currently in its care, with 40 adult rabbits on its waiting to come in list.

The charity said a family recently sought help after its three "female" rabbits multiplied to 21 due to one being male.

It said the rescue was caring for 10 of the bunnies brought in by the family, with another litter remaining with the family until they were old enough to leave their mother.

Assistant supervisor Claire Newcombe said it was not unusual for this to happen.

"We would urge all rabbit owners to get their rabbits spayed or neutered," she said.

"As soon as rabbits have given birth, they can get pregnant straightaway, and the gestation period is only 31 days."

The trust said it was now offering rabbit owners on low incomes and benefits a discounted scheme at its Wolseley Road clinic to get them spayed or neutered.

'Confirm gender'

Ms Newcombe said in one year it was possible for two rabbits to have 82 bunnies and confirming their gender, especially before the age of eight weeks was "tricky".

"These rabbits typically go on to live for up to 12 years," she said.

Ms Newcombe said it was hard to remember another time in the sanctuary's history when there was more baby rabbits on its waiting list.

She said: "People assume baby rabbits are easy to home but, in reality, it is not easy to find owners who understand their needs and the care involved for years to come."