Calgary Sun

October 17, 2007

Feverishly multiplying bunnies taking over Valley Ridge

By PABLO FERNANDEZ

The community of Valley Ridge is being overrun by bunnies, a situation that has an animal rescue agency pleading with Calgarians not to purchase rabbits as pets.

Dozens of rabbits have made yards and green spaces in the northwest Calgary community their home.

They are feasting on gardens and provoking the ire of residents, some who have called for the culling of the growing bunny population.

The city doesn't want to euthanize the animals, which are already facing death at the jaws of coyotes or the harsh looming winter, said Bill Bruce with Calgary Bylaw and Animal Services.

"They're a concern because they attract coyote activity and there's concern about their welfare," he said.

"These are domestic animals who have been let loose ... they're not equipped to handle Alberta winters."

Captured rabbits are being kept in host homes until they get shipped to a sanctuary in the Okanagan area of B.C.