when rabbits are born they have no scent, and they cannot move for the first 4-6 weeks of their lives. their mothers must leave them in the nest during the day, as her scent would attract predators. she only returns at dawn and dusk to feed them. baby cottontail rabbits have white spots on their heads, called milk spots, that fade as they become adults.
a rabbit's primary defense mechanism is being able to hear predators before they have a chance to attack. it is in a wild rabbits best interest to be alert and fearful. the whole world is her enemy, but first they must catch you.
rabbits and prey animals in general can die from stress. what is often mistaken as calm or "friendly" behavior is often a panic response, freezing out of fear. rabbits generally do not like being picked up but you can do it anyway, just be sure to support her weight and legs from beneath. never carry a rabbit by the legs, as they can kick so violently they can hurt themselves if not supported.
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