Chelan County begins rabbit roundup

WENATCHEE – The Chelan County Public Utility District has begun rounding up rabbits in an effort to curb the exploding bunny population near Rocky Reach Dam.

The roundup Friday proved to be a test of human patience, as workers battled wits with the quick rabbits.

About 300 to 400 domestic rabbits at the dam inhabit a sprawling juniper patch. Many began as pets that were dropped off when their owners discovered how much upkeep the animals required.

The utility feared the overpopulation presented a danger from disease and predators.

“There’s some sadness to the whole thing, but the bottom line is we want to do what’s best for them,” utility spokeswoman Jeri Freimuth said.

The rabbits were to be taken to the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society for a health exam, a shot to kill parasites, spaying and neutering. They then will be transferred to the Rabbit Meadows Sanctuary in Redmond, according to Wenatchee Valley Humane Society Director Scott Wallace.

The utility plans to remove the junipers in early March and replant the area with grass to discourage people from dumping more unwanted bunnies, Freimuth said.