Hoppy Lunar New Year! Today marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year and in 2023, we welcome in the Year of the Rabbit.
Signifying new beginnings and overcoming obstacles, Adelaide Zoo’s three rabbits, Basil, Pepper and Rocket, celebrated the year of their species with some tasty vegetable-filled treats.
The lunar-decorated enrichment was created by Adelaide Zoo’s wonderful Behaviour and Environmental Enrichment of Zoo Animals (BEEZA) team.
Zoos SA Chief Executive, Elaine Bensted, said The Year of the Rabbit is predicted to be a year of hope.
“We know a lot of the zoo’s community celebrate Lunar New Year so we are excited to welcome in the Year of the Rabbit,” she said.
“This lunar year is predicted to bring hope and prosperity and here at Zoos SA, we hope this will mean some amazing conservation outcomes for species both here and around the world.
“As we know, the Year of the Tiger was very lucky and prosperous for us, with tigress Delilah welcoming three little critically-endangered Sumatran Tiger cubs. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2023!”
The Lunar New Year, celebrated by nearly two billion people worldwide, is also known as Chinese New Year and Spring Festival.
Unfortunately, as an introduced species, wild populations of rabbits often threaten native Australian species due to overgrazing. However, these fluffy, bouncy bunnies make amazing pets and having a rabbit as part of your family, helps protect precious native animals in the wild.
Our furry friends at home need the same considerations as zoo animals when it comes to nutrition, environment, behaviour and health. Zoos SA’s Animal Welfare Tool for pets lets users assess the welfare of their animals in their own home, and includes helpful tips and advice for ensuring their pet is leading a happy and healthy life.
For more information about rabbits and Adelaide Zoo, please visit zoossa.com.au.
