Expert: Stephen Vantassel - 5/31/2006

Question
My family found a hole of wild bunnies in our backyard. My mother has decided to keep them two matter how much I beg her. Is it alright if she keeps them? Will the mother accept them if we let them go? Please help!

Answer
I would strongly suggest that the young be returned to the nest.  First, she has potentially exposed herself and her family to diseases from fleas and ticks.  Second, many states have laws against the raising of wildlife without proper permits and training.  The motto is if you care leave them there.
I don't know if the mother will accept them or not. The issue is probably not going to be human odor. The issue will probably relate to the health of the young and whether the mother has moved to new quarters.

I would also add the best thing to do to help rabbits is first lobby to stop free roaming house cats which ravage wildlife and second, provide places for rabbits to hide such as brush/stick piles.
See http://icwdm.org for more info.