Florida Suburb Launches Campaign to Combat Rabbit Overpopulation

A suburban community in Wilton Manors, Florida, is dealing with an invasion of lionhead rabbits, an invasive species that was illegally released by a breeder two years ago. Alicia Griggs is leading efforts to raise funds to capture, neuter, vaccinate, shelter, and find homes for the estimated 60 to 100 rabbits. The city has given them time to relocate the rabbits instead of exterminating them, as residents have complained about the damage caused by the rabbits. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has declined to intervene, stating that the rabbits pose no immediate threat to wildlife. Lionhead rabbits are not equipped to survive in Florida's environment, and their lives outdoors are harsh and shortened.