Our new litter here at Two Oaks Farm arrived July 16 - 5 little ones, 3 REW, a fawn and a chestnut. Mom is Morning Glory's Bailey & dad is G.C. Spanish Oaks Diamond Jim. I bring my nest boxes in for the first three weeks or so except for feedings, so these little ones are not being subjected to our record-breaking heat. Mom isn't so fortunate, but she is clipped down; at least she isn't still pregnant during this heat!
The heat here has been unrelenting and awful! Today the prediction is for 100 degrees or more, with a heat index of 105-115, and this is just the latest and hottest in a string of days with heat in the upper 90's and humidity so thick you could cut it with a knife...... Usually during the summers around here the heat and humidity are somewhat relieved by regular thunder storms in the evenings that release some of the day's heat, but this summer we aren't getting even that relief. Implementing various strategies to keep the bunnies cool, and watching closely for signs of excessive heat stress. I'll go out in a few minutes and dispense a round of ice cubes in water bottles.
I had a couple of litters right in the prime range for heat-related ear problems (currently 10 1/2 weeks old), so they have been moved temporarily indoors. There were a few ears showing some inclination to wobble, but all look fine now thank goodness!
I had a couple of litters right in the prime range for heat-related ear problems (currently 10 1/2 weeks old), so they have been moved temporarily indoors. There were a few ears showing some inclination to wobble, but all look fine now thank goodness!
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