babies in the colony

cottontail · Jun 7, 2012

My colony is 8 x 15 in a shed. my doe had her babies in a nest box 2 weeks ago. when they start to venture out and explore how will they know how to get back to the nest box and nurse from momma? Will they just scatter all over the place and get cold? there are 4 does and 1 buck in the colony. will they hurt the babies? Will mom protect them? what should I do?

Kyle@theWintertime · Jun 7, 2012

My babies are beginning to move around and explore a little...yesterday two of my current litter were out and sniffing around when I went to feed them, and when I spilled some feed while in the pen, they startled and bolted back to the nest.

MaggieJ · Jun 7, 2012

Once their eyes are open, the kits can find their way back to the nest quite easily. They will also run momma down when they are hungry and sneak under her upside down for an extra snack. You'll see their little feet waving in the air... so cute.

It is uncommon for adult rabbits to intentionally hurt kits, but accidents like stepping on one can happen. Bucks usually enjoy the kits once they are out of the nest. Newborns may be at risk of being scattered by a buck in his eagerness to rebreed the newly delivered doe... They find them irresistible at that point. But it the kits have made it this far, they will likely do just fine.

Kyle@theWintertime · Jun 7, 2012

Once their eyes are open, the kits can find their way back to the nest quite easily. They will also run momma down when they are hungry and sneak under her upside down for an extra snack. You'll see their little feet waving in the air... so cute.

I have yet to witness this, it sounds adorable!!!!!!

Alas, when I'm in the pen or just staring into it (hey, they're fun to watch!) my rabbits usually focus on me and not each other...they know who carries dehydrated apple or carrot bits in pockets, LOL!!!

cottontail · Jun 9, 2012

I was worried for nothing. Around 4 they run around and by 8 they are back in their nest. I did see them try to nurse mom but she just ran away.they are so cute. Can't wait till 3 does have their kits in 2 weeks from now. It is so much easier when they are in a colony. I have 9 6 week holds in a growout pen and wow they poop alot. I put it in my garden but then my dogs trample it to eat it. I started to put them on the lawn in a dog crate with the bottom cut out and I have to move it Evey 6 hours. Kindof like a cheap homemade rabbit tractor.

MamaSheepdog · Jun 9, 2012

What a pretty bunch of red rabbits!

Saiyuri · Jun 9, 2012

They are beautiful little things ^^ I have a similar type of run for mine although would love something smaller so I can move it daily and have them 'mow my lawn' (takes about 2-3 days for them to get it done atm)