Is the Baby Abandoned?
Check the area where the baby was found and look for a nest. Rabbits nest in a shallow “scrape” in the ground lined with a mixture of dried grass and rabbit fur. If you found the rabbits in or near a nest, use the reunite instructions below. Do not attempt to reunite if the baby is:
Reuniting Instructions: The “X Test”
*Always use gloves to handle baby rabbits! Rabbits are very sensitive to foreign scents!*
If a cat or unknown animal has attacked the nest, place all the babies (injured and healthy) into a box, and call us at 713-468-8972. If we are closed, leave a voicemail and follow the Temporary Care Instructions below.
If you find a rabbit of any age that is:
Please follow the Temporary Care Instructions below.
The two species of rabbits commonly seen in the Houston area are the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) and the swamp rabbit (Sylvilagus aquaticus). In Houston, we typically see rabbit babies heavily from March to May, and sporadically from June-August. However, it is not uncommon to see a few babies as early as January or as late as November. At about three weeks of age, rabbits, (who are about the size of a hamster) are independent. Babies whose bodies are at least four inches long, ears are erect, can hop around quickly, and avoid people are likely independent.