White rabbits found in snow
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after two pure white giant rabbits were found abandoned at Loch Watten, Caithness.
The first rabbit was caught by residents from the local village of Watten on Monday (15 February) who called on Scottish SPCA Senior Inspector Audrey Gunn for help. Senior Inspector Gunn transported the rabbit to our Caithness and Sutherland Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Balmore.
A second identical rabbit was rescued by a local farmer and taken to a neighbour who cared for it overnight before handing it over to us on Wednesday (16 February). The rabbits have been named Blizzard and Snowflake after the weather conditions they were found in.
Senior Inspector Gunn said, "Both rabbits were seen huddled together under a bush at the end of Loch Watten at around 7.00am on Monday morning.
"They are pure white albino rabbits, aged around three to four years old. Blizzard is a neutered male and Snowflake is female. Both are well handled and in good bodily condition so they must belong to someone.
"We've reunited them with each other and they are eating and drinking quite happily, despite their ordeal.
"We don't know whether they've escaped from their hutch or been abandoned by their owner so we're appealing for anyone who recognises the rabbits to contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999."
Abandoning an animal is an offence that carries stiff penalties including up to six months in prison, a £5,000 fine or both. Anyone guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from owning animals for a fixed period or life."
If the rabbits are not reunited with their owner they will be available for rehoming.