Your Bunny Projects

[Deleted User]

So many rabbit things are home-built. It seems with house rabbits the possibilities are endless. Beka was talking about making a neat platform for her rabbits, and I suppose many members may have projects in mind for their rabbits. I would like to build this carpet hut here because it is way expensive to buy and I like projects:

–what projects would you like to start for your rabbits? Please post about them here!

[kralspace]

I was thinking about a motion operated water sprinkler that would detect when one of the divas is about to lift tail and pee in the common play area and give them a refreshing spray!

[Deleted User]

Let’s stick with less high-tech of projects… but let us know when this contrivance is finished. People might want it for bonding sessions.

[Beka27]

Bunny hidey houses are really easy to make out of wood. My husband’s made a couple. Altho my buns usually preferred sitting atop the houses rather than inside. Which is why I think they’d love a platform.

[MirBear]

de-odourizer, for those NOT YET ALTERED bunnies, that just phew, reek! *cough* hershey & twix *cough

[Deleted User]

Nobody is building anything right now?
–I am thinking of starting a ramp this week so my rabbits don’t have to jump off the NIC shelves but have a choice of walking down. Well, at least this is the plan.

[RabbitPam]

I am only planning stuff at work for our next exhibit *sigh – very pooped* but often think I SHOULD do more for Sammy.

In fact, this morning I was wondering if she’s big enough so I could take down the NIC cube “fence” I have around my couch, chair, and other furniture so she doesn’t go under them. Not sure if she can still squeeze under. She is a snake, not a mountain goat. Does not climb anything at all any more. Never did much, but now she’s totally on the ground floor. I don’t know if she would even use a ramp to a new level.

If you have any good ideas for a ground level bunny, I’d be interested. The maze isn’t a big favorite of hers (sorry, BB) and really she just loves her upside down basket with her holes to see out. It would be nice to get her a fun addition. Just don’t have a good idea that won’t make my apartment look like a zoo habitat.

[Deleted User]

Posted By RabbitPam on 05/02/2010 12:54 PM
I am only planning stuff at work for our next exhibit *sigh – very pooped* but often think I SHOULD do more for Sammy.

She is a snake, not a mountain goat. (…)

If you have any good ideas for a ground level bunny, I’d be interested. (…) that won’t make my apartment look like a zoo habitat.

 

Your work sounds so interesting. What kind of exhibit is this that you are working towards, if I can ask?

So, Sammykins is free-range?

Would she like an NIC tunnel since you will have the grids left that you are thinking of taking down?

 

Lint loved his grid tunnel

[mrmac]

I would like to change up my set up that I have now, just move things around. I got some good boxes I can’t wait to use! I will work on it this week!

[jerseygirl]

RP, could you set the maze up single layer style and put it under the bed? That way she might retreat to it and it would help prevent any nibbles to the mattress. Plus it would free up some space.

 

–what projects would you like to start for your rabbits?

Petzy, see this is my problem. I’m always starting things….it’s the finishing them that never happens. I’m always thinking of things too but never even starting them. *roll eyes*

Currently I’m repairing a wall in their space. I’ve out a sheet of drywall in but need to cap the top at the window sill with wood. They sleep there atop a set of draws and gnaw at the sill. I’m ok with it so figure I’ll put some bunny safe wood there. I have some tiles for the floor also.
I’m always modifying the litterbox. I have some bread crates that I want to cut down to use as a grate.
I’d also like to fashion some sort of hidey box+litter box concealer peice of furniture for the living room. I might just skip the litter box part. But I’d like a sort of chest or coffee table/end table that’s useful to me and looks like furniture, but a hide out for the buns too. I’m thinking I’d line it with cardboard so they can rip to their hearts content. Still thinking on that one.
Then there’s the chew chew station I’ve mentioned before. I’d set that up in their area. Safe chew toys, branches etc fixed in the corner somewhere. I can’t seem to find anything appropriate to use though!
I’ve considered a Sky-walk along the window too. The kitchen window looks into their room. I thought it’d be entertaining to see them up there at that level. Highly unlikely I’ll ever do it for lack of appropriate materials.   I’ve considered doing a diggy box of late too. But now I’m thinking of a diggy bag of sorts. Maybe a heap of washed river pebbles in a hessian sack… So they can dig and arrange it. Even a tub of these pebbles would probably provide some interest.

So that’s me…many project ideas…nothing getting done!

[Deleted User]

Jersey, it sounds like your rabbits are getting a home make-over! I like the plan for the edible window sill. You are thinking like a rabbit.

Well, I like bunny projects because they are relaxing. It is a good way to destress for me. So I built that bunny ramp last night, instead of going to bed early like I should have.  Essentially this ramp is a test for me to see if I can’t run it up to the window, through which they could have access to the yard. I want to fence in a small section for them so they can hop out through the window. This would require the ramp to be movable as I would definitely not want them to hop up to the window when it is closed.

the ramp is wired to the wall so it stays put. This wood was immaculate last night but this morning I already see chew marks…

This is the rabbits’ window where ultimately I want the ramp to go up to.

[kralspace]

I love the ramp to window idea. I’ve wanted to create a cat/bunny area in my yard with a window access for a long time too. I used a few different size boxes with rugs on top to make so they could hop up and look out the window and they seem to love it. The cats tried to take it over but Pringles just karate kicked them off and they leave it alone now. and edible is great too.

[Deleted User]

The idea for the ramp to the window to get access to the yard I actually read about in a book. I think it was Margo deMello who wrote about building a set-up such as this and it stuck in my mind because I found it so neat especially with multiple bunnies. It would be a great convenience for me if my rabbits hopped in and out on their own.

@Jerseygirl: are you still using the grated litterboxes? I seldom do anymore.

[Elrohwen]

Our big project was just moving the buns out of their temporary pen in the living room and back to Otto’s setup in the dining room. We did it on Saturday and it’s amazing! I love having their cage out of the way. I was feeling penned into my own living room. We had reconfigured the xpen and spent 45min changing it around so it would fold up neatly again. Tip: don’t ever take your xpen apart or you will drive yourself crazy trying to get it back together just right.

Our other minor project was making a bunny jungle gym, mostly for Hannah, though Otto likes to lay in the “cave” part of it. They’re losing interest though, so I think we need to switch it up this week.

We have a garage, but not really a lot of space for projects. I can’t wait until we have a house and we can make them some fun stuff!

[Deleted User]

Oh, that is such a cool hang-out you made Elrohwen! Otto must love it in there! Maybe RP’s Sammy would like a thing like that.
The rabbits really like open NIC structures. I guess they make them feel safe.

Haha — I used to think a house was the answer: but we just got more stuff! I just ‘make’ room when I need it for the rabbits…

[Elrohwen]

Pam, I bet Sammy would like something like that jungle gym we made for our two! Just skip the upper level and maybe add some more on the lower level. Otto loves having the cardboard walls and he can chew them too 😛

Half the time, the bunnies move it out of the way and sleep between it and the wall/couch/whatever. They’re weird.

And I have to give my husband the credit for the hangout we made. Hannah likes to be up high on our dining room chairs, so he thought she would like sitting in the upper level. She climbs up there, but I’ve only seen her hang out there once for longer than a few seconds 

[jerseygirl]

These are great to see!

Petzy, what kind of wood is that you have along the ramp? For the removable ramp, could you make the whole thing out of grids? Like the grid tunnel (all 4 sides) with something solid along the base and lengths of wood for stability. If it’s fully enclosed no one can jump off (or fall off) the ramp from a high point. Then you could just use it as a tunnel on the floor when not rigged up to the window.   btw, the dogs waiting at the window is hilarious!
(as to your qu: yes I’m still using grated litter box -I’ll elaborate on that in my/Jerseys behaviour thread. )

@Elrohwen, what if you enclose the sides of the gym a little more to make it attractive to Hannah? Even a sheet draped on the back and short sides. It might make it feel more like being under the table on the dining chairs. Fingers crossed…lol

[Elrohwen]

Jers, that’s a good idea with the sheet. I’ll try that. I also need to get something to use as flooring on the second level. Right now it’s just folded up blankets, which isn’t bad, but I think she’d be more comfortable and likely to stay up there if the floors were solid.

[Deleted User]

The rungs of the ramp are stripped and dried pieces of lilac.

Your idea, Jersey, of making an enclosed square tube of grids is excellent especially in terms of safety. I had considered using NIC grids but I would have had to buy them — part of the challenge in my bunny projects is using what I already have sitting around, at least for now. The ramp I made does actually move up to the window. I figured out how to fasten it but will post a picture soon rather than try to explain it.

[mrmac]

I love it!

[Elrohwen]

Today both bunnies have spent all of their time in the maze haven. Now I’m thinking we should get a second and attach them! But then my house turns into a bunny zoo 🙁

We’ve having people over this weekend who haven’t seen the bunny set up yet (I’m not sure how, since I swear they visited and stayed with us in the last year, but DH says they haven’t). DH is worried they’ll think we’re crazy bunny people, but their girlfriends are coming and I’m sure the girls will just think the bunnies are cute 😛 So I’m trying to un-zoo my house by the weekend!

[Elrohwen]

And Petzy, I need to see more pics of your ramp! Are you putting anything down for traction? I can’t really tell from the pics.

[Moonlight_Wolf]

Today both bunnies have spent all of their time in the maze haven. Now I’m thinking we should get a second and attach them! But then my house turns into a bunny zoo 🙁

Elohwen just give up – your house is going to be given completely to the bunnies sooner or later… I know when I get my own place then my house will belong to the bunnies!

[Deleted User]

Traction was an issue especially once I ran the ramp up to the window sill which indreased the incline. I ended up changing the surface a bit. I will see if I can get a video of them hopping up it tonight. I have been sick with the flu and gone to bed extremely early.

[Deleted User]

I think I will start on the yard part of my project soon, but the ramp is approved. I will improve the railing on it at some point with something other than cardboard but equally light.

Lint is my sport bunny, the first to try out anything new.

When the ramp is down, it is easy hopping:

This is steep, a more challenging hop to get up to the window. This setting of the ramp will only be available to my rabbits when I want to let them out into a small section of fenced-in yard. The ramp is suspended from my basement ceiling beams for this setting, and also attaches to a hook in the wall. 

Deirdra’s first hop down the steep setting, she needs more practice to trust this structure.

Neigey, my mountain goat bunny has not used the ramp while I was watching

 

[Deleted User]

I guess I should rename this thread “My Bunny Projects”

[Elrohwen]

I love the ramp!

You should set up a spy camera so you can see if Neigy is using it as soon as you look away 😛

[Deleted User]

Thanks, Elrohwen. I want a bunny cam badly….
I think once the window opens for them to the outside Neigey will come hopping fast!

[Elrohwen]

Oh, I thought of Niegy at the rescue the other day. This little dwarf bun jump onto the side of his cage, about 6″ off the floor, and clung there like a monkey for a few seconds. I couldn’t believe it! Especially because this bun never seemed like he would have the energy to do something like that (and I’ve never seen him do it again). I thought of Neigy climbing up those grids when he was a baby.

[Deleted User]

Neigey still climbs. I just try to keep it contained. I think he will enjoy the ramp for this reason.
I really like small bunnies since I have had him… they are such fun!

[mocha200]

((((((((((( healing vibes for Petzy)))))))

i would have LOTS of bunny projects planed but we might move so we can’t really plan things like that.

[Deleted User]

Thank you Mocha! I took medication and feel much better!

I thought you just finished an awesome project: the outdoor bunny playground. Some projects are movable, too. My ramp is, for example.

You could build little barriers for Lulu to see if she will jump over them if you set them up in a narrow hallway. Well, I bet you are too busy right now with bonding

[mocha200]

your welcome. yes i did just finish a out door playground. should i post some pics of that?

[Deleted User]

yes, why don’t you? I think it involved a ramp as well, one that led up to a little hutch. Can you show that?

[mocha200]

ok. glade your feeling better!i will have to get the pictures from the other computer. i will post them in a second.

 

the temporary cage is the one made out of xpens with the blue tarp. the pernament one has a hutch, and is made out of wire.

 

 

 

[Deleted User]

It is a very nice playground. Do your rabbits go up and down their ramp fast? What type of wire did you use? It looks very strong.

[Monkeybun]

Posted By Elrohwen on 05/05/2010 11:56 AM
Oh, I thought of Niegy at the rescue the other day. This little dwarf bun jump onto the side of his cage, about 6″ off the floor, and clung there like a monkey for a few seconds. I couldn’t believe it! Especially because this bun never seemed like he would have the energy to do something like that (and I’ve never seen him do it again). I thought of Neigy climbing up those grids when he was a baby.

 

Sounds like my Monkey. She’s always clinging to the side of her pen these days, especially if she thinks I’m bring her nommies. And she thinks that every time I go into the kitchen. Silly girl.

[Deleted User]

Monkey, are you building something? A dollhouse for Monkeybun? I think you said you used to built these.

[Deleted User]

Monkey, are you building something? A dollhouse for Monkeybun? I think you said you used to build these.

[Monkeybun]

I’ll be back to building dollhouses after the buns are bonded and i have room to again I can’t set up my worktable yet cuz Moosie’s pen is where I need to put it lol. Some day….

And of course, once I get a house, which likely wont be for awhile, I’ll be building lots of bunny hidey places and such all around the house. My Masters must have their various houses, right?

[kralspace]

I love the playground and the curious cat. I have one cat who’s the appointed nursemaid to the bunny room. When it’s time for me to leave she settles into the chair in the middle of the room so she can see everyone and sleeps til I get home.

[mocha200]

i have been busy i built a little play area for mocha and lulu in my garage and they love it! i will take pics once i find the camera card. i put boxes, boards, plastic lids, litter box, and some hay! mocha had fun sitting on his card board box and shredding it.( i wonder if he new if he shredded to much he would fall through)
Petzy: yes! they go up the ramp pretty quick! the wire is very strong. i am not sure what kind it is i will have to ask my dad he was the one who bought it.

[mocha200]

my cats love hanging out with my buns!

[mocha200]

 

here are some pics of there play thing in the garage!

[kralspace]

no fair teasing us mocha200 or there’ll be sticks!

[mocha200]

here is a video of them playing in there play thing. BE AWARE OF THE MOVING BOX!!!

[mocha200]

as you can see in the pics i am on top of the van in some of them

[mocha200]

does any one know how to embed the videos onto BB?

[Deleted User]

wow, what nice big and bright play areas you made for them! hehe, the moving box is kind of creepy! I see you made Lulu a 3-grid high side to the xpen, good grief, she is a maximum security bunneeh (like mine!)

mocha has such a cute face.

–I am worried you might fall off the van, it is not safe.

[mocha200]

i know he does… he is so cute. i climb on our vans a lot, and i was holding on to the garage ceiling.

[Deleted User]

Holding on to the garage ceiling?? This does not make it sound any safer!

–You inspired me to show where I am at with my bunny project. I was not going to post this yet becuase it is just up and not yet nice enough to show. But my bunny-window yard is taking form. It needs things and stuff but I will add those as I go along.

 

[mocha200]

wow. that looks nice petzy! i am hopping if we move that in my room i would have a little door that i could open and close that would lead out into a play pen area thing.

[mrmac]

That pen is so neat! They look like they are enjoying it!

[Deleted User]

Posted By mocha200 on 05/06/2010 01:01 PM
does any one know how to embed the videos onto BB?

 

Once you copy the embed code from your photobucket video, you just paste it into the window where you compose your posting in.

[Deleted User]

I am not sure what Lint is trying to do — break into the basement to get into the indoor pen? –Maybe he just wants to know why it’s closed.

[mocha200]

so cute !

[Mikayla]

One thing my bunny loves is a little tunnel I made out of boxes. You just take 4 or more Priority Mail boxes (about 7.5″x5″x14″ box is fine) and put them together like a tunnel so the flaps are overlapping, then tape the flaps down like that. I even decorated it, but that’s just me. XD

[mocha200]

i made a tunnle like that but they never used it cuz i broke right away. i guess i didn’t tape it strong enogh. but it just broke off a bigger box so i could have left it out. i guess i never thought of it.

[mocha200]

oh,oh,oh,oh, you guys i embedded the movie! yeah! its were the link used to be. sorry i am just soooooo excited i got it to work! thanks Petzy! thanks soooo much!

[Deleted User]

hey hey hey — you did it! soon you will do things for your dad on the computer !

[kralspace]

oohhh, that yard/window set up is so cool! I have a side patch that would be perfect for something like that, but it’s so totally shaded there’s really no grass there. What type of shady area grass would be suitable for a bunny area?

Edited to add: I found this recommended for central Texas heat: Fine Fescue / Bluegrass   and maybe some bermuda tossed in.

[Deleted User]

My bunny yard has hardly any grass in it either, but it is a hot dry spot. I’m hoping the rabbits will fertilize it and I can get some grass growing there. Do you know which grass likes hot and dry? I can water it.

[Deleted User]

My quartet is still frightened by their new yard. I opened their window access to get back into the pen and everybunny hopped right in, without any coaxing. They are so confused right now by the fact that the ramp moves and does not always lead to the window.

[mrmac]

That is so neat! I want one! They will get used to it eventually!

[Deleted User]

It is going to be ‘supervised use of ramp’ only! The ramp is built for single-lane traffic and my rabbits already are trying to pass one another. That’s fine, though, as the entire outdoor experience requires supervision. –Deirdra is busy digging tunnels the moment she gets out. I am just glad I won’t have to carry them out.

[Andi]

I tried to ‘herd’ mind into the house after playtime outside yesterday, by making the pen go to the back door… LOL Yeah, herding Rabbits is a joke, so glad my neighbours were not watching LOL.
PitStop kinda got it and was racing back and forth while i had to pick everyone else up individually LOL

[Deleted User]

That must be fun, Andi. I only have 4 and was looking for a way not to have to carry them every time… — will your herd go in when you shake their pellet bag or something? Now I have a bunny project idea for you then: clicker-train all 8 of yours to hop inside at the sound of a click!! LOL!

[Andi]

I’ll pay you $100 if u can over and teach them to do that! LOL
It’s from one side of the house to another, and well they didn’t think playtime was over LOL, So i had no help. The bunnies window go to the concrete driveway, so i wouldn’t be able to make them one that way

[Deleted User]

An opportunity to visit B.C. AND money? Wow, what an offer! Unfortunately, I have no experience with clicker training… I might have to bring my dog to help herding them… he will just push their bums along! LOL!

[mocha200]

Petzy: your ramp is soooooooooo cool! i would totally make one but my room is on the first floor so the widow is really high off the ground

[BinkyBunny]

I LOVE it Petzy! I’m so envious. One day I’d love to build something like yours where they can go outside to a safe play area. As far as the ramp goes, you could build higher sides so that if one will just have to back down, or climb over the other and not be tempted to jump over the side. (If that is what you are worried about).

I know you said you’re still working on the outside, but it’s lookin’ good. Can’t wait to see what it looks like finished then!

Mocha – I loved the moving box video! So funny.

[usagi]

Yeah, Petzy, you are probably just about the coolest bunny momma out there.

It’s amazing! What fun! And what lovely buns! It’s different seeing pics and then seeing them in action. I’m smitten with the last bun that went down the ramp… brown and white, I think?

[mocha200]

thanks BB. he is so funny.

[Deleted User]

I made the pen twice as big because it was too sunny and  I wanted to give them some space under the deck. They like it better now and want to be outside.

I also increased the cardboard railing on the ramp like BB suggested. Don’t know why I made it so low iin the first place. Now I feel it is much safer and I don’t cringe when they pull a stunt or two.

 

[kralspace]

oh wow, those are some happy bunnies! Anyone want to start a pool on when it takes in the entire yard? 😉

[Deleted User]

no, there are limits…

 

here is a video where you can see the ramp with its banana box railing.

Pardon my junky yard… under the deck. Sigh, I am working on it.

[kralspace]

that is so cute! like 5 o’clock rush hour

[Nibbles_NZ]

That is too cool! I bet your bunnies are SO happy to have a bunny momma like you! I want to let mine outside too but we have a big dog that lives next door and barks non stop. He is behind a fence but the barking will probably frighten my little bunnies.

[mocha200]

wow Petzy i love how it turned out! now you are making me want to make somthing for my buns! i love making stuff. i am wanting to build a little hiddy house out of wood for them but my dad doesn’t like building stuff and i am not good with power tools

[Deleted User]

If I had help, my projects would look really great, but I always end up with something crooked — luckily the buns don’t mind! yeah, power tools are scary in the beginning. Maybe you can catch your dad on a good day… or trade something for his help. There must be something he would like you to do for him, and in return you can enlist his help!

[mocha200]

yeah i will have to see…..

[Nibbles_NZ]

Posted By mocha200 on 05/10/2010 04:25 PM
wow Petzy i love how it turned out! now you are making me want to make somthing for my buns! i love making stuff. i am wanting to build a little hiddy house out of wood for them but my dad doesn’t like building stuff and i am not good with power tools

 

Do you live near a Joann’s? I found a larger wooden (untreated) storage bin that would be great as a hidey hut. You would have to cut a hole in it but it would be easy and they are not too expensive.

[Nibbles_NZ]

I am going to build a big cage for my buns. Of course they won’t just live in it because I let them out to explore the living room too. I want it to be atleast 2 levels. I am really going for 3 levels. We will see what my Husband is willing to do lol. I really love the one on the Great Habitats page that belongs to the bunny “Moxie”. I still haven’t found out who the owner is of this though. I would like them each to have one and I want to have the option of stacking them or having them sit side by side. I also want detachable wheels on them. I don’t know how big to make it. There is plywood at lowes that is precut 2’x4′ but that seems kind of small to me. Of course they would have levels that are that big each. I would like atleast 3’x4′. I love the idea of having doors so the whole thing opens up for easier cleaning. I will have a carpeted level and the rest lenolium. I’m still trying to work in the details. I’ve been to Lowes to buy the stuff twice so far and ended up getting so frustrated I left. LOL Maybe third time is a charm.

[Deleted User]

I had to add in a poultry netting on the ground of my bunny yard as Mops was intent on digging out.

[mocha200]

did he get out? or almost get out?

[Deleted User]

no, but he dug a very deep hole, I checked on him and only his butt was showing. He is just digging for fun but he would soon discover that it will give him access to a whole new bigger world…

[mocha200]

wow mine don’t ever get that deep!

[Deleted User]

Probably because your outdoor enclosures are on grassy ground. Mine is on loose earth, very diggable, very tempting.

[mocha200]

at my grandparents they were on sand/grass and they would only dig for a second then stop. but they weren’t in there that long though.

[Deleted User]

Mops is an excavator, he is very much into digging.

[Nibbles_NZ]

You were very smart to put down poultry netting. Have you thought about putting a plastic baby pool and filling it with dirt so your bunnies can dig safetly? I was thinking of doing something like that in my yard

[Deleted User]

That’s a good idea. I have a leaky kiddy pool anyways but it is rather big… don’t have enough dirt to fill it… hmmmm……

[Deleted User]

So I have got this setup with ramp and all… but my rabbits never want to come inside on their own anymore… grrrrr! Now i am back to carrying rabbits….

!!!!!!! @#$@%$^%&%*&^*&%&^#%$@#

[Monkeybun]

lol you got them outside, and they don’t want to go in from their playground now? hehehe silly buns…

[kralspace]

maybe a recording of a coyote howling? (I’m mean)

[Deleted User]

The coyotes are always calling at dusk, and my rabbits have no idea that it is something scary… I need to get them in before the coyotes start in, I will have to try something mean, like a garden hose immitating light rain…

 

[kralspace]

I bet that would work, as much as mine hate to get wet.

I do have days when it seems like everyone’s out to kill the other couple and I get fed up enough to let my dog stick her head in for a second and everyone forgets their petty jealousy and it’s Bunnies United. They are very nice to me for a while for saving them from the monster….lol. Poor old Floppie can’t hear, can’t see and would be terrified if a bunny got close to her but they don’t need to know that.

[Deleted User]

Posted By kralspace on 05/12/2010 08:00 AM

I do have days when it seems like everyone’s out to kill the other couple and I get fed up enough to let my dog stick her head in for a second and everyone forgets their petty jealousy

…mean!!

–Would you like me to email you some coyote calls for this purpose?

[kralspace]

couldn’t hurt! or the sound of my grandkids running through the house on their way to the bunny room.

[Andi]

In the winter i filled a cage bottom with snow and brought it inside for the bunnies to play in, 3 of 4 bunnies who played in it loved it! lol
There is a video on youtube that has a rex bunny on a long dog chain, and within a day he digs like a 6 foot hole, the guys video camera can’t even get to the end of it (good thing that bunny was contected to something lol). I won’t show the video to my hubby, he’s already mad at the little holes my rex loves to dig :p
I wish i had a sorta of ‘bunny cart’ i could just load all them into when it’s time to come inside, other then chasing one down at a time and carying them into the house… one…by….one… :p

Mine will even stay outside if the weather turns bad.

[Deleted User]

The digginng abilities of rabbits are amazing. A friend of mine has rabbits in a large fenced area during the day, and they dug a tunnel you could fit your entire arm in.

Some of my rabbits only like it outside if the weather is very clement, but Lint, my black mini rex, and big Deirdra love it outside even in poorer weather, especially in the snow. Where I live, though, it is usually dry. Any sort of dampness, or windy with dampness, they would all dislike.

I had to close my bunny yard for now. A young weasel had been watching them, and even though my dog chased the weasel away, I don’t want my rabbits on the ground until I know for sure where his dwelling is and relocate the weasel. The problem is that the live traps are expensive to buy and the ones I can get from my County Office are all rented out currently.

 

[Andi]

oh no, weasles are bad new, those little buggers can fit through anything their head can, it’s incredible. It’s so great having a dog as bunny security LOL, mines blind now, but even a neighbouring cat won’t bother to come into our yard with her around.

It’s my Rex and his partner that LOVE being outside as well, no matter the weather. Both bunnies though lived outdoor lives before i got them. Bo was a hutch bunny in a backyard, and Ani was let loose after kids got bord of her. My mini lop is the most sensitive about weather and such.

[Deleted User]

Posted By Andi on 05/13/2010 10:33 AM

It’s my Rex and his partner that LOVE being outside as well, no matter the weather. Both bunnies though lived outdoor lives before i got them.

My Lint was a yard bunny before I got him too. He was living in someone’s yard and hopped through the neighborhood…

[mrmac]

Stupid weasel go away! Lint is such an outdoor boy!

[Karla]

Sorry about the weasel, Petzy. Yikes, sound a bit scary. Well, I actually thought the fact that you had coyotes sounded scary, haha. So are the weasels easily relocated or do they keep coming back?

Are polecats and weasels more or less the same thing??

[kralspace]

down here in Texas a polecat is a skunk..lol

[Karla]

Really?? I just googled it. So, I know what a skunk is and I know what a polecat is. How come you mix it up in Texas. LoL, that is just really confusing now

[Deleted User]

According to wikipedia, the skunks have been moved to another classification, they no longer belong to the weasel family. Polecats do though and even the large wolverines do. These are all cunning carnivores.

–I have discovered that this weasel lives in a tunnel system that burrows into the ground right by my basement wall, ON THE OUTSIDE OF WHERE MY RABBIT PEN IS ON THE INSIDE. I can relocate this one, but there will always be more. They are a very common basement pests in my county. At this point, I will keep a kill trap loaded in my basement because I can’t take the chance of having one weasel weasel its way into my house and to my rabbits. I will build an NIC cube around it.

I set my dog by my rabbits and put them in a different spot in my yard, just for grass-eating and fresh air.

These are just some upside-down crate halves.

 

[Karla]

It’s kind of strange that it decides to live in a place with two big dogs, isn’t it? Kind of scary though so close to your rabbits.

I like your new invention. Actually, I am quite sure your bunnies must love it.

I had a marten living on the roof at my old house, which I think is kind of the same as a weasel or a polecat. My mum was freaking out and telling me it could kill my huge cat. Apparently, I was supposed to inform the government and let them take care of it, as they are not supposed to live here. I couldn’t do it, although I know I should have. What does the kill trap do that you have bought?

[kralspace]

well, you know Texas rednecks!

Petzy, you are quite the bunny wrangler and I love the guard dog. They look really happy out grazing in the grass….there’s a song there somewhere

[Deleted User]

You would be surprised, or rather, I was surprised to find that weasels can kill animals much bigger than them. The nasty thing about them is they just love to kill! They will invade a chicke coop and bite the heads off the chickens and leave the rest.

I saw the little weasel sitting by my rabbit’s outdoor pen as I came to check. I had only been gone a minute to get something, and the weasel was sitting three feet away from my dog who was mouse-still waiting for the next move. I did set my dog on the weasel tunnel, let him disturb it. It should drive the weasel away. His tunnel was also close to the wiring where it feeds into my house. In a way, I’m glad I found out this way because that weasel could do much damage. The wildlife gets used to stuff, they get used to dogs; like coyotes invade urban areas and get used to things there.

[Karla]

Good point about the weasel getting used to the dog. And I guess, it could attack your dog as well, although of course not killing it, but still getting a good bite and hurt it. If your dogs love digging, they could dig the tunnel, which I guess could make the weasel move away due to stress?

Does it come out at daytime?

[Deleted User]

You are right, a dog could get hurt by a weasel. It can also carry diseases such as parvovirus and infect an unvaccinated dog.
Yes, the tunnel is dug up pretty good now, but it goes deep and into the concrete of my house foundation. When I saw the weasel, it was early in the a.m., they are supposed night hunters, but I guess, the presence of my rabbits caught his interest.

[Deleted User]

My rabbits are right outside my office window, and I heard a rustling sound just now. I though one of my rabbits had escaped which would be pretty impossible because the crate halves are heavy and have tines sticking in the ground. I look out, and that tiny weasel is racing around outside! It is early in the afternoon, so much for night hunting… I watched it disappear under my deck again.

I brought evrybunny in to stay under indoor house arrest until I catch this weasel. It could even climb up on my patio even though it wouldn’t have a chance because of my other dog there. The weasel is ever so small, like a mini baby squirrel, and reddish brown with a white chest and long tail. It is the fastest, too.

[Deleted User]

I will make a new thread about my weasel project

[Andi]

Wow, he’s a brave little thing!

We had an issue a couple years back where some activitst broke into a local mink farm and released all the minks. Many of them died, starving, killed by dogs or hit by cars. One got into the shelter killing two rabbits (brutally), when he was caught it was so sad b/c he was very skinny had his face badly scared from some sort of fight or injury he unfortunetly was euthenized to be tested for rabies.

[BinkyBunny]

Wow…scary- So glad you spotted him!

What a sad story about the minks — Of course I feel sorry for the animals they killed but I also feel so sorry for the minks too. Animals have it pretty rough.

[Deleted User]

Posted By Andi on 05/14/2010 02:43 PM

We had an issue a couple years back where some activitst broke into a local mink farm and released all the minks. Many of them died, starving, killed by dogs or hit by cars. One got into the shelter killing two rabbits (brutally), 

 

how did he get in, did you find out?

[Monkeybun]

Was that the mink farm in Aldergrove? I used to live in Aldergrove lol.

[Andi]

Yes, it was an Aldergrove Mink farm… lol
The wire mesh around the outside of the Quonset was large enough for him to squeeze through. Now it’s covered with a very thick tight mesh, and it goes the entire way up to a steal frame, this way even climbing over it cannot happen. The floor that was then mesh with gravel is now concrete, so no digging either.

[Deleted User]

I don’t feel too bad about taking down my rabbit pen like I did because of a weasel. Today the black flies have emerged and it would be cruel for anybun to be outdoors.

[mocha200]

i won’t be able to let my buns out till next year ether… well… i guess i could on the deck. but my dad sprayed weed killer on the lawn! he said that he didn’t get it in the pen but it can spread! i hope you can get rid of that weasel soon!

[Deleted User]

Well, at least we have our patios still! Keep in mind that being on grass can also cause a rabbit to get flea-infested, on a patio this can’t happen.

[mocha200]

yeah i guess… i am just scared that they will make me put them out there cuz they don’t like the xpen on the deck.

[Deleted User]

oh, I see.
I am not aware that weed killer spreads unless you tread it around by walking on the treated area and then walking in their pens.
Maybe someone will know if weed killer spreads underground. You could post that question on here in another section, maybe diet and care.

My weasel is REALLY hard to get! I am starting to realize I’m fighting a losing battle since this is surely not the only weasel here. I think I’ll just go with patio plus two dogs to keep the weasels at bay.

[mocha200]

i feel so bad for you! that window idea was so neat! hope you catch it. yeah maybe it doesn’t spread i just thought i herd some people on hear saying it might.

[kralspace]

darn weasel! sorry it hasn’t worked out for the buns, it was such a great idea, but I bet they’ll enjoy the patio.

[Deleted User]

ask in diet & care because it is important to know if it spreads. who knows, they make all kinds of nasty chemicals with unlikely abilities…
check with your dad to know exactly where he sprayed the weed killer. Or ask him what product he used and I will email the company for you to ask them if it spreads.

don’t feel bad for me! It was a great test run — imagine if I hadn’t seen that weasel, he may have come into my basement window that was unprotected at the time and surely taken a rabbit from me.

[mocha200]

https://binkybunny.com/FORUM/tabid/54/aff/1/aft/110342/afv/topic/Default.aspx

here is the thread i just made. is it ok for me to put the brand on that post or should i send you a privet message?

[Deleted User]

I think you can post the brand there. Each brand might work differently so it really is important info.

[mocha200]

ok

[Andi]

I know we use an animal safe furtilizer, can’t remember the name, but i think ‘lawn pro’ or someone makes it. I still won’t put bunnies out there if it hasn’t rained real well afterwards or if i can see anything.

[mocha200]

i got a idea. we are thinking of moving in a few years and i have this idea on how my bed wont be in the way of my bunny’s space. have you ever herd of a loft bed? i used to have one at our old house but our ceiling is to low at this house so i can’t have one. any was i was thinking i could cage it in underneath and it could be there cage. i made this drawing on windows paint so it isn’t very good but this is what i meant.

 

 

[mocha200]

edit: there would be a ladder. i just forgot to draw one.

[mocha200]

its kinda a weird idea wasn’t it.

[jerseygirl]

Not weird at all Moc ! It’s a good use of space. My only concern would be for when you’re feeling sick. Imagine being up that high when you’re all woozy! Maybe you could sleep on a temporary bed when sick. Anyway, I like how you’re thinking ahead for your rabbits future indoor habitat. They are well and truly indoor bunnies now!

[Deleted User]

When I was renting a basement suite when I was younger, I had a loft bed and my dog’s huge crate fit underneath it where she slept. I loved this set-up. It was such a space safer. It could work very well with a rabbit habitat if you put some thought into how to make it low on noise.
I love your drawing!

[Beka27]

Mocha: neat idea! You wouldn’t even have to have it very tall! Even a loft bed about 4 feet off the ground would allow for a condo with multiple levels underneath!

[Beka27]

This is a pretty cool set-up!  If you google images of “loft beds” you get all kinds of neat pics!

[mocha200]

Posted By jerseygirl on 05/24/2010 10:40 PM
Not weird at all Moc ! It’s a good use of space. My only concern would be for when you’re feeling sick. Imagine being up that high when you’re all woozy! Maybe you could sleep on a temporary bed when sick. Anyway, I like how you’re thinking ahead for your rabbits future indoor habitat. They are well and truly indoor bunnies now!

well here is the thing. we might be moving to a lake front property that has a trailer house so we would build a bunk house for me and my sister to sleep in until we build a house. so once we build the house i could have a room inside to. so i just have to decide were i would sleep, with the buns or in the house. i have had a bunk bed before and when i got sick i would put the mattress on the floor. would having the buns in a bunk house be bad?

 

[Deleted User]

Lulu and Mocha won’t care if they are in a bunkhouse or whatever type building, as long as they don’t get too hot. If this is in a hot climate you might have to take measures to keep them cool as a bunkhouse wouldn’t be air-conditioned. You can do it, though.

[mocha200]

it will be a little colder then were we are right now. i think they will be fine to. it will be built for a human to live in it, so it should be good.

[4Lily]

HMM> Thinking I want to build Lily a hidy house, kinda like a hutch style for in our bedroom & one for in the living room! Right now she sleeps under our night stand. And when we are in the living room she’s on our chairs or in her corner area. But was wondering if she’d even use them? Maybe I should try card board box’s first to see? Any suggestions?!

[mocha200]

i would try a cardboard box first.

[Author]

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