Wild Rabbits

Question
I ran across an injured wild bunny which is now healed.
Am I allowed to keep a wild rabbit or is it against the law.  My husband states that keeping a wild rabbit is
a $500 fine and giving up the rabbit.

Thank you for your help.

Answer
Dear Betty,

In general, special permits are necessary for keeping native wildlife.  But I don't think there is a specific fine for keeping one.  I suspect your husband simply doesn't want the rabbit, and is trying to scare you into giving him up.

That said, wild rabbits do not do well in captivity, as they are very nervous and flighty.  If this one is calm and doesn't mind your company (as some wild rabbits are), then it might be safe to allow him to stay with you.  Be aware that it's technically illegal without permits.  But I do have to admit that I get mail from lots of people who live with wild cottontails and have a lot of fun with them.  The law about keeping them is very loosely enforced, mainly because they are not an endangered species, and most wildlife officials don't really care much about them.

It would probably be different if your bunny were a bald eagle. ;)

To find out the laws in your area, you might wish to contact your local Fish and Wildlife Department and ask.  But I really doubt there's any such thing as a $500 fine for keeping a little wild cottontail that you nursed back to health.

Hope this helps.

Dana