RSPCA praise local heroes as 80 rabbits rescued from wood with 23 dead 'showing signs of fighting'

Members of the public went out of their way to help around 80 live rabbits which were dumped in a woodland, the RSPCA has said. Sadly, 23 rabbits were found dead alongside the pets at Chaddesley Wood between Kidderminster and Bromsgrove.

Local rescue groups were called in and worked day and night to capture the bunnies who were found on Monday, November 11. Many require vet treatment and around 40 of the females are thought to be pregnant.

The RSPCA sent an inspector to the scene following the discovery. They found the dead bodies of some of the rabbits and post-mortem exams will be carried out as they investigate what happened.

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Fifty-six of the rabbits have been taken in by Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue and there have also been reports of other rabbits being found by members of the public. The RSPCA has taken two live rabbits to a vet for treatment.

RSPCA Inspector, Boris Lasserre, said: "Any animal being deliberately left behind to fend for itself is a serious case of neglect, and it is increasingly shocking that so many rabbits are abandoned at the same time. The RSPCA is actively investigating this.

"Thankfully a large number of live rabbits were rescued by the members of the public who came across them, and put them in a place of safety overnight. It is heartening to hear that so many people have been able to help as charities rely on working in partnership with each other to create a better world for every kind.

"We’d like to thank Lucky Bunny and Friends in particular for taking in the 56 live rabbits and we have offered veterinary assistance to them if required for any in need."

At the location, Boris found the 23 dead rabbits dumped along the path, and also found two live rabbits amongst them. These two rabbits have been taken into RSPCA care for treatment.

The remains of the dead rabbits have been examined by a veterinary surgeon and post mortems will also be arranged. The RSPCA shared a number of images with BirminghamLive showing some of the dead rabbits lined up. We have chosen not to include these in this article as they are very upsetting.

Boris added: "These rabbits have clearly been living in a poor environment, and had numerous wounds suggesting there was infighting amongst the group. This increases the concerns as to where they have come from and the conditions they were kept in. We are keen to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for abandoning these rabbits in such an irresponsible way.

“Sadly, abandoned and neglected rabbits are becoming an increasing problem as charities are seeing more and more coming into our care. We understand that times are tough at the moment but please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate or the animal suffers.

"The RSPCA has a cost of living hub to help owners access help. The charity has also launched its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign ahead of what is expected to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals.

"Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or has first hand information that could assist the RSPCA's investigation should contact the charity’s appeal line, confidentially, on 0300 123 8018."

Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue - based in Gornalwood - is now working with five other charities to help with the ongoing care of the rabbits. Click here to donate towards their care.