City's park board warns public not to feed, handle or release rabbits this Easter in Jericho Beach area

The Vancouver park board is asking the public to be mindful of how they coexist with rabbits around the city's many parks this coming Easter.

Hopping on the heels of their recent warning about population management of the city's Canada goose, park officials are warning people not to release, feed or touch any rabbits in the Jericho Beach area.

A number of feral rabbits live in and around the Jericho area, tempting many park goers to handle or feed the animals, often for the sake of a social media photo.

“Unbeknownst to many, Jericho Beach's feral rabbit population is an invasive species colony, originating from domestic pets that have either been purposefully released into the wild, or escaped,” the park board warned in its public notice.

Rabbits that have been released often compete with native rabbits for food and space, and can damage ecosystems, disrupt food sources and introduce parasites and disease. Those who think a live rabbit would make for a good Easter surprise are also being asked to think twice, as these bunnies are often abandoned in public parks once “the novelty has worn off and the responsibility of pet ownership sets in.”

“Not only does this contribute to the negative impacts of feral rabbits in the park, but it leaves domestic animals frightened, malnourished and vulnerable to a huge range of harmful consequences including traffic accidents, predators and disease,” officials warn.

Those who spot rabbits out and about are also being warned not to try to rescue, handle or pick up the rabbits as it puts the individual at risk of being bitten or scratched. Many rabbits also carry pests and parasites, which can be transmitted to humans or other household pets such as dogs.

The fine for feeding wildlife in Vancouver parks and beaches is $500, regardless if food is being fed directly to the animal or left out for them.