The Easter bunnies are out in force at Long Beach City College.
The college’s liberal arts campus, with its large grassy areas, has been a historical dumping ground for people who no longer want their pet rabbits. School officials, saying they’ve had enough, are starting a campaign to reduce the number of the furry creatures on campus.
By the last count, taken several months ago, well over 300 rabbits were on the grounds, digging holes and chewing their way through thousands of dollars’ worth of landscaping. But now, school officials fear the number of rabbits is even larger, given that the animals can produce up to 10 bunnies per litter every month or so.
"Do the math and you get the idea," said Mark Taylor, the school’s director of community and government relations.
As part of the campaign, signs are being posted at the college and campus police officers will begin enforcing local codes that could result in a $500 fine and/or up to six months in jail for anyone who abandons an animal.
Veterinarians from Western University of Health Sciences are also working with school officials to spay and neuter the animals, school officials said. Campus volunteers will help collect the rabbits and take them to veterinary facilities and provide post-surgery care. Taylor said the college is also working with local animal rights activists to find people willing to adopt some of the rabbits.
"These bunnies are so happy and relaxed to be in a sheltered environment," said Diane McClure, a professor of veterinary medicine at Western University. "They deserve to have a forever home."
For more information about adopting a spayed or neutered rabbit, contact Jacque Olson at [email protected] or (562) 938-4370, or Donna Prindle at [email protected] or (562) 938-4356.
— Robert J. Lopez
Photos: New campus warning signs; Western University professor Diane McClure helps care for one of the rabbits. Credit: Long Beach City College.