The dead adult was found very close to the babies, or the babies are otherwise known to be orphaned–what now?
10. How to Tell if the Mother is Returning: The String Test. A simple test can determine if the babies are still being cared for by their mother: place two pieces of string in a X formation over top of the nest (including the nest cover), with the centre of the X in the middle of the nest, and the edges of the string overlapping the edges of nest by six inches on all four sides. Pull the strings taut. You may want to add a few more pieces of string to form a star pattern to best ensure you can tell if it is moved. String over top of a rabbits nest. Leave the string in place overnight and keep people and pets away from the area. If the test is done before dark, this should give the mother two opportunities to feed her young, since they are typically fed near dawn and dusk. If the mother does return to the nest, you will notice a disturbance in the string pattern by morning. If the mother has returned, remove the string and leave the nest alone. Baby rabbits have the greatest chance of s
