male floppy ear rabbit biting

Question
I have a 1 year old floppy ear rabbit who is not neutered. I often take him outdoors and let him hop about while I sit and watch. He started pawing at my clothing and then he stands on his hind legs and nips at me. He left a small bruise on my arm. When he does this, I pick him up and place him back in his cage.  What's this behavior all about? I forgot to say, he's very calm usually, and doesn't nip.  Also, what's the grunting sound they make all about? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Patrice,

the behavior you are describing is that of an un-neutered male rabbit.  The pawing, standing up and nipping are most likely his attempts to 'mount' your leg.  When male rabbits mount a female they often nip their backs and pull out small tufts of fur.

The reason he doesn't do this all the time is because he isn't at your feet all the time.  Intact males will circle and make little 'honking' sounds (not the same as protest or defensive grunting) while circling an object of their affection - female bunny, or female human.

It's normal male rabbit behavior, he's not weird.  He is hormonally driven and perhaps he likes your pheromones.

The solution is to get him neutered by an experienced rabbit vet.  I recommend checking the House Rabbit Society web site

www.rabbit.org\vets

and search for a good rabbit vet in your area.

He will stop being frustrated, and this will cut down on the nipping/excessive spraying or marking/etc that you are experiencing.  His wonderful personality will remain.

Write back anytime.  Lee