Winter bunnies

[Martin]

I have a pair of beautiful Netherland dwarfs who are 8 months old so have not yet experienced cold or frost. Every time I look out of the window at night they are huddled in the exposed outside corner of their run rather than upstairs in their bedroom (full of nice clean straw). I know they do go up there as two bunny sized dents appear soon after I change the straw.

Is it normal for them to stay up outside all night even in very cold temperatures? or are they down there because they are apprehensive? (we have a local cat who comes into the garden)

[pcolbeck]

Since they are Dutch bunnies I suspect that they don't feel comfortable sleeping in the accommodation provided due to its altitude. Try digging a hole and providing them a bed at least a couple of metres below sea level

[Martin]

can you come and help? they are about 68m ASL although the water table is a lot higher than sea level

[Mrs Pingu]

Is there not a dutch bunny forum? They might have a better idea on the psychology of our orange hoppy cousins....

[Martin]

they were born in Suffolk...

[Mrs Pingu]

Well yes, but it is a breed, I presume?

[Martin]

I was more concerned that as a species without the ability to burrow underground they might feel apprehensive about being above ground where there was a predator;

anyway a thermal microwaveable mat is on order from ebay!

[Mrs Pingu]

Maybe some suggestions for you here (tunnels?) http://www.thepetsite.co.uk/focus/5m/149/inside-or-out-rabbit-welfare
https://www.saveafluff.co.uk/rabbit-info/winter-care-for-rabbits

[Martin]