Interacting with feral rabbits poses health threats, park board says

As Easter approaches, the Vancouver Park Board is out with a warning not to approach feral rabbits living in the West Point Grey area.

In a release, the board says the public should not be releasing, feeding, or touching the rabbits at Jericho beach “for their sake – and yours.”

Feral rabbits populate the beach’s grassy areas, and the board says people are often drawn to their fluffy tails, twitching noses, and relative tameness. But, it adds, their cute demeanor can come with serious health threats — to the rabbits, and people.

The board says the rabbits can also adversely affect the environment. They’re an invasive species colony made up of domestic pets that have escaped or been intentionally released.

“Invasive species can out-compete native species for food and space, damage ecosystems, disrupt food sources, and introduce parasites and disease. They are the second greatest threat to biodiversity, following habitat loss.”

Over the holiday, the park board says bunnies that are bought as Easter gifts can also sometimes be released into the park once the novelty of pet ownership has worn off and the holiday is over. However, it warns the domesticated version of the animal is more likely than its feral counterpart to be left frightened, malnourished, and vulnerable to consequences such as traffic accidents, predators, and disease.

It also says that feeding wildlife can lead to a fine of up to $500, and is prohibited across all Vancouver parks and beaches.

“Food left out for rabbits attracts mice and rats, which can lead to infestations and further opportunities for spreading diseases like Hantavirus,” it said.

The board says under no circumstances should the public touch these animals because it can put them under distress, and put people at risk of being bitten or scratched.

“Rabbits carry pests and parasites such as ticks, which can transmit deadly diseases to humans and dogs such as Lyme Disease,” the board said.

“While trying to get close to a small fluffy bunny can seem harmless, the best thing you can do is give it space and observe from afar.”

The park board also suggests that pets like dogs should be “kept under control,” on leash and away from wildlife.

“With spring in full swing, the public are reminded that coexisting and protecting Vancouver’s wildlife relies on all of us doing our part to ensure both animals and people can enjoy our greenspaces without negatively interacting with one another,” it said.

-With files from Catherine Garrett