At ENYWARE, we prioritize quality of care over quantity of intake.

Cottontail rabbits are one of the most stress-sensitive and microbiome-dependent wildlife species in rehabilitation. Survival rates drop significantly when housing density exceeds what can be properly managed during critical developmental stages.

Because of this, ENYWARE limits intake to maintain the highest possible release success.

Our goal is not to take the most rabbits.

Our goal is to release the strongest rabbits.

When ENYWARE Accepts Cottontails

We accept:

  • Confirmed orphans (mother deceased or absent >24 hrs with clear evidence)
    • Nest destruction where kits cannot be renested
    • Injured or compromised juveniles
    • Starvation cases appropriate for rehabilitation

We may redirect:

  • Healthy nest discoveries where mother is likely still caring
    • Unnecessary removals
    • Situations where renesting is possible

Education is often the best intervention.

Capacity-Based Intake

ENYWARE operates on a capacity-based intake model.

We only accept the number of rabbits that can be housed at:

  • Age-segregated densities
    • Proper transitional space
    • Individual weight monitoring standards

If we are at capacity, we will:

  • Refer to another licensed rehabilitator
    • Provide renesting guidance
    • Offer monitoring advice

This policy exists to prevent overcrowding, which increases preventable mortality.

Our Care Standards

Every cottontail admitted to ENYWARE receives:

  • Age-specific housing
    • Daily weight tracking
    • Stage-based feeding protocols
    • Controlled milk tapering
    • Outdoor conditioning prior to release
    • Release only after stable weight without full milk

We do not release based on appearance alone.

We release based on physiological readiness.

Why We Limit Intake

Taking more rabbits than can be properly housed may feel compassionate in the moment — but overcrowding increases stress, disrupts gut development, and reduces survival.

Limiting intake allows us to:

  • Reduce preventable loss
    • Improve weaning stability
    • Increase successful release rates
    • Provide educational outreach that reduces unnecessary rescues

Sometimes the most ethical decision is to say “we are full.”

What You Can Do If You Find a Baby Rabbit

Before removing a rabbit:

  • Look for signs of injury
    • Check if nest is intact
    • Monitor from a distance for maternal return
    • Contact ENYWARE for guidance

Most baby rabbits found in yards are not abandoned.

Our Commitment

ENYWARE is committed to:

  • Evidence-informed wildlife rehabilitation
    • Transparency in care standards
    • Education-first intervention
    • Responsible capacity management

Fewer rabbits. Stronger releases.