Do Not Disturb Young Rabbits

A little brown hare, alone and abandoned on the roadside? Usually no need to worry – because his mother is often not far away. Here are some tips on what you should do if you find young wild animals.

Hares, like many wild animals, can have their young as early as January. Unlike rabbits, which build nests, mother hares give birth in a shallow hollow in the ground. They typically have around three young, known as leverets. These are born well developed, with fur and open eyes. Shortly after birth, the mother leaves them alone for most of the day, returning only briefly a few times to nurse them. This helps prevent predators from detecting their location. While waiting for their mother, leverets remain hidden or begin nibbling on their first green plants.  

From a very early age, leverets are relatively independent. After just two or three days, they begin exploring their surroundings and leave their birthplace. However, this early independence also makes them vulnerable to dangers such as harsh weather, traffic, and predators. Domestic dogs and cats, in particular, can pose a serious threat.  

Most young hares are neither orphaned nor sick. If the animal is not injured or in danger, it must not be taken under any circumstances. But do not worry, their mother is likely very close to the young animals and can continue to take care of their offspring. Walkers should considerately walk away and keep dogs on a leash!

Should a young animal be in a very unfavorable place, e.g. sitting in the immediate vicinity of a street, you can carefully pick it up and release it again about 100 feet from the site. And don't be worried that the mother does not accept the offspring again: the mother's instinct is stronger than the fear of the human smell. To be on the save side, an animal that has been touched can be gently rubbed with some grass, leaves, or soil.