Shelfing Litters

[Br. Fidelis Ebeyer]

I’ve seen in passing posts and comments about Shelfing litters i.e. bringing in the nesting boxes full of kits into a warmer environment so as to avoid frozen kits/escapees. We’re hoping to do that with our upcoming litters given how rough our litters went last winter. I just had practical questions.
When should we bring the kits in? Sundown or just before we all retire for the night? And when does the nursing doe need the litter back? Would it be too late to bring them in after sunrise when things begin to warm up a little?

We kinda had a rough breeding cycle last winter but we could really use the meat and we’re hoping for better results this season.

Any tips? We really appreciate the experienced input.

 

[Alaska Satin]

I’ve seen in passing posts and comments about Shelfing litters i.e. bringing in the nesting boxes full of kits into a warmer environment so as to avoid frozen kits/escapees. We’re hoping to do that with our upcoming litters given how rough our litters went last winter. I just had practical questions.
When should we bring the kits in? Sundown or just before we all retire for the night? And when does the nursing doe need the litter back? Would it be too late to bring them in after sunrise when things begin to warm up a little?

We kinda had a rough breeding cycle last winter but we could really use the meat and we’re hoping for better results this season.

Any tips? We really appreciate the experienced input.

Hey, me again.

When I'm shelving litters, I keep the box inside almost 24/7 until the kits are safe if they pop out (about 2 weeks). I only take them out to the doe in the morning and in the evening, and I wait for the doe to hop in, feed them, and hop out. Then I take them back to the house. Sometimes, if the doe doesn't jump in right away (usually it's the evening visit), I'll leave them for an hour or so. But since I am trying to keep accidents from happening, I don't leave them outside any longer than necessary.

Many does feed only once a day, and if the bunnies do miss a second feeding, the doe will be that much more anxious to feed them on the next visit. It doesn't seem to be critical what time of day you take them, but of course it is best if it's consistent.