Rethinking Rabbit Experiences at UK Farm Parks

Rabbits are one of Britain’s most familiar and loved animals. Soft, gentle, and often a child’s first encounter with wildlife, they are treated as symbols of innocence and fun. But as we have learned working with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), the reality behind many UK farm park experiences is very different.

When we first met Rae Walters (RWAF CEO), she explained how thousands of rabbits spend their days being picked up, stroked, and handled at farm parks. While these activities are marketed as family-friendly, the impact on the animals is serious.

The reality for rabbits

Research shows that handling prey animals like rabbits triggers significant stress. Their heart rate increases, stress hormones rise, and body temperature can spike. Rabbits often freeze when they are scared, which can look like calm behaviour to visitors. This is, however, is a sign of fear. Repeated handling can lead to weakened immune systems, digestive problems, and other long-term health issues.

RWAF research shows the public already supports change. 53% of visitors rate rabbit welfare at farm parks as poor or very poor. 78% believe daily handling is harmful, and a significant 95% said they would avoid petting sessions if they knew the rabbits were scared.

As Emma Milne, media vet and RWAF patron, explains: “The stress caused by these interactions cannot be overstated. It can have serious effects on welfare and long-term health.”

A better approach

With around 25 million visits to UK farm parks each year, these attractions have a major role in shaping how children understand animals. RWAF’s “Don’t Bug Bunnies” campaign encourages parks to replace handling sessions with educational and enrichment activities that prioritise rabbit welfare.

We have been working closely with Bucklebury Farm in Berkshire, the first farm park to adopt RWAF’s recommendations. Oliver Shute, Managing Director, says: “The changes at Bucklebury Farm focus on giving our rabbits space to run, dig, and hide, helping them feel safe and content. It is not just about visitors seeing animals, it is about showing what proper welfare looks like.”

Instead of handling, Bucklebury now offers activities such as preparing rabbit-safe treats, interactive games, and quizzes. These allow children to engage with the animals without causing fear or stress.

As Rae Walters notes: “Enrichment activities are enjoyable for children and safe for rabbits. They teach respect and help young visitors understand the animals’ needs.”

Raising awareness

To help amplify the message, our agency supported a national broadcast campaign on TV and radio, reaching millions of people across the UK. The campaign highlighted the stress caused by handling sessions and showcased positive examples like Bucklebury Farm.

Moving forward

Every farm park that signs RWAF’s welfare pledge becomes a Rabbit Welfare Champion, showing that prioritising animal welfare is both responsible and rewarding. This campaign is about more than awareness; it is about encouraging meaningful change in how rabbits are treated.

We are proud to work alongside RWAF to promote experiences that educate children, protect animal welfare, and model best practice for the industry.

www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk.

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