It’s easy to see why rabbits became a symbol of Easter – new life is a frequent event among them. With so many of them around and the numbers always growing, you’d think we’d know everything about rabbits. But the U.S.D.A. found, a few years ago, that some basic data – like how many pet rabbits there were in the U.S., or how many were in shelters – had never been recorded.

However, the U.S.D.A. found the number of pet rabbits was estimated at 5.28 million, and discovered some further facts:

· 40% of American households that own small animals have rabbits.
· The average rabbit owner has 2.4 of them.
· Pet stores commonly want rabbits about four weeks old.
· Their average price was $20 to $35.
· Some people – know as “bunny runners” make a career out of transporting rabbits from breeders to pet stores.
· A small number of people raise rabbits for their wool (Angora). One rabbit can produce up to 2.4 pounds a year.
· The House Rabbit Society recommends having your rabbit spayed or neutered and keeping it indoors.
· Rabbit shows are held across the U.S. each year.
· Some people breed herds of rabbits especially for shows. Average herd size may be 30 rabbits or more.
· Rabbits from these herds who aren’t show material are often sold as pets.
· There are no professional rabbit handlers – if you enter your rabbit in a show, you have to handle it yourself.
· On average, a rabbit owner spends $116 a year on food, toys, supplies, and vet visits (apart from surgery).
· A breeding herd usually contains about one male (buck) for every 10 females (does).
· Rabbits are often tattooed in the ear, like dogs or cats, for identification.

The world of pet rabbits, though maybe not well-known, is a large and busy place.