Found a Wild Bunny?
Here's what you need to know — and what to do next.
We Cannot Accept Wild Rabbits
Bunnies Matter Rescue is a domestic rabbit rescue only. We are not licensed or equipped to care for wild cottontail rabbits or jackrabbits. If you have found a wild bunny, please do not bring it to us — read below for the right resources.
Domestic vs. Wild: What's the Difference?
🐰 Domestic Rabbit
- Larger, rounder body
- Wide variety of colors — white, black, brown, spotted, etc.
- Floppy or upright ears, often larger
- Tame, may approach humans
- Found loose outdoors — likely abandoned or escaped
→ Contact us! We can help.
🌿 Wild Cottontail / Jackrabbit
- Small, lean body with brown/gray fur
- White fluffy tail (cottontail)
- Very skittish — freezes or runs from humans
- Found in yards, parks, desert areas
- Baby nests are often in grass or shallow ground holes
→ Contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
Found a Baby Wild Bunny? Here's What to Do
1. Don't panic — and don't over-handle it
Wild baby bunnies are very fragile and can die from stress. Limit handling as much as possible. If the bunny is not injured and the nest is intact, the best thing to do is leave it alone. Mom cottontails only visit the nest at dawn and dusk.
2. Check if the nest is safe
If the nest has been disturbed by a pet or lawn mower, gently place the babies back and cover lightly with natural materials. Place a string or flour around the nest to check if mom returns overnight.
3. If the bunny is injured or truly orphaned
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Do not attempt to feed or care for a wild rabbit yourself — they have very specific dietary needs and improper feeding can be fatal.
4. Keep pets away
Even a small scratch or bite from a cat or dog can introduce bacteria that is deadly to wild rabbits. If a pet has touched the bunny, contact a rehabilitator right away.