My doe JMJ-1 had 17 babies (all live) 2 litters ago. On Monday she kindled again with 15 , again all live. We were able to foster out 3 of them. This morning a first time mom had 3 live and 4 dead. She was taking good care of the live ones so I gave her 3 more of the JMJ-1 babies and so far they are all doing fine. I think JMJ-1 can handle nursing 9 babies :) I used to put a dab of vinegar on the foster mom's nose and on all the babies so everyone would smell the same, but for the last several months I have just put new babies in the middle of the nest or each one between 2 original babies.
What is the highest number live in the litters you have had? Do you move some to other moms? What has been your technique?
How on earth did you end up with Momma's that produce so many? I was shocked to read this - but very curious! Congrats to the new mom! Haha!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment Shelley. We bought our stock from a large commercial breeder that was having great success. Most of our litters regularly run 9-13 bunnies. This one is an exception. She is one we bred and raised from the original stock and she is now 1 1/2 yrs old, prime breeding age.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh! I am so glad I found you Sunny! I love your rabbit blog! We started with four rabbits last summer and now we have over 20! I am thinking about just raising them for meat, but the girls are too attached to them. We have some pets and they are taking a few to the local county fair! What fun!
ReplyDeleteTalk soon, Janine
Wow! That sounds like a huge litter. We haven't gotten our rabbits yet, but are in the process of getting set up for them.
ReplyDelete~Jenny~