Suburban Florida Community Grapples with Growing Rabbit Population
Residents of Jenada Isles, a small community outside of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, are facing an unexpected challenge: an increasing number of domesticated rabbits have taken up residence in their neighborhood. It all started when a former resident left behind a pair of pet lionhead rabbits that multiplied over the past couple of years.
Approximately 75 rabbits now call Jenada Isles home, causing concerns among officials and residents about their welfare and the potential damage they may cause. The community, consisting of around 80 households, is surrounded by canals, creating a contained space where the rabbits have been able to thrive.
The rabbits, which dash across streets and burrow in yards, have caused disruptions in the neighborhood. Some have chewed through wires and created hazards for cyclists and motorists. Concerns from residents prompted city officials to discuss potential solutions for managing the rabbit population.
In April, local leaders debated options proposed by Gary Blocker, the chief of police in Wilton Manors, the suburb where Jenada Isles is located. Blocker suggested hiring a trapping service to remove the rabbits. However, concerns were raised about the potential euthanization of the rabbits if no suitable homes could be found for them.
Residents like Alicia Griggs, who has lived in Jenada Isles for almost 40 years, have been advocating for the rabbits’ safety. Worried about their inability to withstand the Florida heat and defend themselves against predators, Griggs started a fundraiser and collaborated with local rescues to find a solution. The rabbits need to be caught, assessed for health, spayed or neutered, and temporarily fostered until they can be adopted.
One of the challenges faced in resolving this issue is the lack of a local rescue organization capable of capturing and housing all the rabbits. However, Penny and Wild Smalls of South Florida, a rabbit and guinea pig rescue, has begun rescue efforts in the hopes that funding from the city will eventually be secured.
While some neighbors argue for leaving the rabbits alone, as they bring delight to the community, others emphasize that they are not wild animals and should not be outdoors. Many of the rabbits are sick and suffering from ear mites.
The city of Wilton Manors, recognizing the urgency of the situation, is working on identifying funding and establishing a written agreement with a rescue organization. Police chief Gary Blocker assured residents that the safety of the rabbit population is a top priority and that efforts will be made to ensure they are placed in the care of people who can provide the necessary love and attention.
As discussions and plans continue, residents have been invited to express their interest in fostering rabbits if they are willing and able to do so.
Ultimately, the community is united in one common goal: to ensure the welfare and protection of the rabbits, with residents determined to find a humane solution to the growing population.
“I don’t think it’s a simple solution,” said one resident. “You can leave no bunny behind. That nobody wants the bunnies harmed unites the community.”
As for the former resident who left behind the initial pair of rabbits, there is currently no evidence of criminal activity associated with the situation, and the city will continue to assess the circumstances.