As a wildlife rehabilitator and nature lover, I’ve come to appreciate the simple yet profound lessons that animals can teach us. So in the spirit of spring, I thought it fitting to share a chocolate bunny... and a few things I’ve come to learn about the real ones. The rabbit, with its keen sensitivity and ability to adapt, is a symbol of resilience—a trait we can all embody in both our personal and professional lives. Whether we’re navigating change, facing challenges, or simply learning to stay present in the moment, rabbit energy reminds us that we can move forward with grace and purpose. For centuries, the rabbit has been a symbol of fertility, renewal, and vitality. Their swift movements and prolific reproduction link them naturally to spring and abundance. That’s how they eventually hopped into Easter traditions. After collecting a few eggs from the gang in the coop—and snacking on a few deviled ones—I found myself going down the rabbit hole to investigate the Easter Bunny and its curious origins. The Bunny, Wonderland, and... Germany Turns out, the Easter Bunny traces back to German folklore, where a hare (or rabbit) would lay colorful eggs and deliver them to children as part of a springtime celebration. A bit like Alice in Wonderland and it made me wonder of where this idea came from. But the roots go even deeper—back to ancient pagan traditions honoring the goddess Eostre, associated with spring, fertility, and the renewal of life after winter’s end. The festival’s traditional colors? Green, yellow, and purple. The Rabbit as a Spirit AnimalLessons in Sensitivity and Renewal Beyond folklore, the rabbit holds deep spiritual meaning. As a totem or spirit animal, it teaches alertness, presence, and awareness. Known for sensing danger and reacting quickly, rabbits remind us to stay grounded and mindful of our environment. The rabbit’s ability to move easily between worlds symbolizes adaptability and transition. If you’re feeling drawn to rabbit energy, it might be a sign that you’re undergoing a transformation—urging you to trust the changes ahead and embrace new beginnings. Spring, after all, is the perfect season for this kind of renewal. Reality Check: Rabbits in the YardSpringtime and Rabbit Nests: How to Protect These Wild Creatures Spring is baby season in the wild—and that includes rabbits. Each year, I get quite a few calls about wildlife in need, especially young bunnies. Most often, it’s because someone’s dog or cat found a nest. A rabbit’s nest—called a “form”—is usually a shallow depression in the grass, lined with fur and plant material. If you discover one in your yard or garden, here are a few things to keep in mind: · Don’t worry—Mom’s never far away. Rabbit mothers typically visit the nest only a few times a day to feed their young. It might look abandoned, but it’s not. · Observe from afar. Keep pets and children away. Rabbits are sensitive, and too much disturbance can cause the mother to abandon the nest. · If you disturb a nest: Gently cover it back up with the nearby grass and fur. Keep a respectful distance and give Mom a chance to return. It can be upsetting when a pet disturbs a nest—but with a bit of mindfulness, these situations are often avoidable. As you tend to your garden this spring, consider planting native species or creating wildlife-friendly spaces. Rabbits, like all wild creatures, play an essential role in our ecosystem. Spring offers us the chance to reflect on growth and renewal—just like nature does. It's a reminder that change is constant, and that, like the rabbit, we can adapt, transform, and thrive. As we celebrate this season, let’s take a moment to connect with the natural world and reflect on how we can carry resilience and grace into our lives—both personally and professionally. This 14x18 painting was a study I did of one of eastern cotton tail I raised call Hercules. He was very special and had a deep bond with A Deer I raised who we all loved Bella. I wrote about them in my memoir Evolution of a Wild Heart The painting is called "Leaving the Nest "and what that might feel like for such a small vulnerable creature that is new to a world that so many others look at as food. Thanks for stopping by Happy Spring With love, JoAnne