College plans rabbit roundup

The Easter bunnies are out in force at Long Beach City College.

And not in a good way.

The college’s liberal arts campus, with its large grassy areas, has historically been a dumping ground for people who no longer want their pet rabbits.

School officials, saying that they have had enough, are starting a campaign to reduce the number of the furry creatures on campus.

But not in a bad way.

By the last count, taken several months ago, well over 300 rabbits were on the grounds, digging holes and chewing their way through thousands of dollars’ worth of landscaping.

But now, school officials fear the number is even larger, given that the animals can produce up to 10 bunnies per litter every month or so.

“Do the math and you get the idea,” said Mark Taylor, the school’s director of community and government relations.

As part of the campaign, signs are being posted at the college warning against dumping a rabbit.

Campus police officers will also begin enforcing local codes that could result in a $500 fine and up to six months in jail for anyone who abandons an animal.

Veterinarians from Western University of Health Sciences are working with school officials to spay and neuter the animals, school representatives said.

Campus volunteers will help collect the rabbits, take them to veterinary facilities and provide postoperative care.

Taylor said the college is also working with local animal welfare advocates to find people to adopt some of the rabbits.

Those rabbits that are not adopted will be returned to the campus, to reproduce no more.

“These bunnies are so happy and relaxed to be in a sheltered environment,” said Diane McClure, a professor of veterinary medicine at Western University. “They deserve to have a forever home.”

For more information about adopting a spayed or neutered rabbit, people should contact Jacque Olson at jolson@lbcc.eduor (562) 938-4370, or Donna Prindle at dprindle@lbcc.edu or (562) 938-4356.

robert.lopez@latimes.com