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?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
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4 comments:
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!
Thanks 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.
Oh 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!
Talk 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.
~Jenny~
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