Nest with 1 dead baby, 3 alive, what to do?

Question
Hi,
There's a rabbits nest in our backyard I've been keeping an eye on and this morning I noticed that there is a dead, decaying (being eaten by bugs) baby rabbit in there with the 3 live ones.  What should I do if anything?  I'd like for the others to live of course.  Please advise.  Thanks!

Answer
I applaud you for not disturbing the nest, and letting momma bun care for her babies. However as you already know a mother rabbit will generally not pick up babies a move them due to something like that.   My suggestion for you is to get some gloves and then a couple of plastic bags (like wal-mart type grocery sacks) and go out and carefully remove the dead baby.  Don't be worried about getting your scent into the nest, your scent (and the humane scent in general) is every where in your yard around your house and car.  The reason for the gloves and plastic barriers is due to things like ringworm, bugs, mites, etc.  They are mostly to protect yourself.  After removing the baby if there is any really nasty bedding, then remove it and replace it with some grass from near the nest.  

After wards I suggest burying the baby, for sanitary reasons.  

While I always suggest leaving wild animals be, in a case like this when you can help without really interfering or disturbing the animals I say go for it, you will end up with a healthier litter of rabbits, and your yard with be a bit more clean.


Good Luck
Amy