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Many people think that rabbits dig deep holes in the ground where they live and give birth. While they may take over existing burrows, most nests are
usually quite shallow sometimes created in barn stalls, or in long grasses above ground. To prevent accidental death, long grass areas should be checked for nests before they are mowed. Do not expect to see the
mother laying
with the babies as she will only visit them to feed late at night and during the early hours of the morning. If a nest is discovered before mowing, leave enough brush around the nest to keep it camouflaged from predators. Babies will sometimes vacate a nest after accidental flooding from sprinklers. Place wet babies wrapped in a towel into a box. Put that box on top of a heating pad set on low. Babies can be put back into the nest the same day if everything is dry and none of the babies appear to be injured. Adult and juvenile injured rabbits need to be placed into a closed box immediately with a towel .Put the box in a very quiet area away from people and pets. Do not handle them as they can die from the stress and if they are placed in a heavy traffic area, they run the risk of breaking their backs , trying to escape. A sheet or towel draped over a pet carrier that is placed in a quiet location, may mean the difference between life or death for the rabbit. Babies will need an additional source of heat, (not just a towel). Take a long sock and fill it with 2 cups of dried rice. Put in the microwave for 1 minute. Place this under the towel and put the babies next to the mound. They should have a little room to move away if they get too hot. This heat may save their life, while waiting for a rehabber to call you back. Do not attempt to feed them as they may need to be hydrated first and you run the risk of aspiration as well as improper diet.
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