HAZEL'S STORY
Species: Mini Rex Rabbit
Whelped: 2007
Hazel was whelped at the Ralston Purina farm in Grey Summit, Missouri. She was part of their rabbit nutrition study program, which monitored the health and growth rate of rabbits when fed different foods. As she matured she became one of their breeders as a continuing part of the program. Hazel has had four litters. When Purina was purchased by another corporation the rabbit nutrition program was phased out, and we were fortunate to acquire Hazel and another rabbit for our education department programs.
Hazel is a classic example of a coloration pattern known as a Castor. Mini Rex rabbits come in a multitude of colors (approximately 18), and are a very popular breed because of their plush coat, which feels like velvet when stroked. They are often referred to as The Velveteen Rabbit, after the children's book of the same name. This breed is very prolific and they are very good mothers. They also excel in the sport of Rabbit Hopping.
When Hazel arrived at our facility she was a bit nervous about being handled, but after just a few days of being handled and stroked by our staff she has become very calm and seems to enjoy the contact.
As a part of our Education Department, Hazel will greet visitors at our Nature Center, and will also travel with our staff as part of our Critters for Kids and Fur, Feathers and Scales programs to hundreds of schools and preschools. She will help to demonstrate the differences between mammals, birds, and reptiles. Since our birds are not touchable, Hazel will be a very popular part of those programs, since the children will get to actually touch and pet her.
To adopt Hazel, simply click our DONATION button, make a donation of $50, and specify in your payment notes: Adopt-A-Bunny: Hazel. Also, be sure you include your name, phone number, and mailing address so that we can send your adoption materials!
Every donation helps to feed, house, and provide medical care for the animal of your choice! Adopt A Bunny parents receive:
* A personal visit with the animal you adopt!! Call 636-861-3225 to set up a time for your personal visit.
* Certificate of Adoption
* Color photo of the animal you have adopted
* Sponsorship card
* One year's subscription to Mews News (our quarterly newsletter)
* Life History and Natural History of the animal
* 10% discount off WBS merchandise
* Invitations to special Sponsors Only events like Camera Day
* Discounts on WBS special events
* WBS decal
