Australia - Authorities are hopping mad after they
discovered a giant rabbit living illegally in a caravan as the owners tried to
convince officers the furry animal was just a long-eared guinea pig.
The rabbit was seized after the pet was found living in a
cage inside a caravan in Queensland when Springwood police were called to the
address in relation to an incident involving the owners.
When questioned about the floppy-eared animal - which are
deemed as 'pests' in the state - the owners tried unsuccessfully to palm their
pet rabbit off as a guinea pig.
Under the state government legislation, it is an offence to
possess a rabbit in Queensland unless the owner has the proper authorization.
Queensland has been known as the no-go zone for rabbits as
they pose a significant threat to the environment and agricultural industries.
The state has the toughest anti-rabbit regime in the world
- and anyone found illegally keeping the furry animals could face hefty fines
of up to $44,000 and six months in prison.
On Monday, Queensland Police shared a photograph of an
officer cradling a giant rabbit in his arms.
“With Easter just around the corner, this bunny got some
special hugs from the officers at Springwood Police Station,” the post said.
“Not wanting to upset the Easter Bunny and lose out on his
yearly chocolate binge, Senior Constable Ben Sier made sure after he finished
cuddling his fat furry friend that he found a good home for it.”
The rabbit is currently on its way to a rabbit rescue
sanctuary in Grafton, NSW.
The name of the rabbit is unknown.
The Queensland owners tried unsuccessfully to palm their
pet rabbit off as a long-eared guinea pig (left).
Queensland has been known as the no-go zone for rabbits as
they pose a significant threat to the state.
