Johannesburg has a bunny problem – but thankfully, it also has heroes. As abandoned pet rabbits struggle to survive in parks and office complexes, a small but mighty rescue group, Berario Bunnies, is working around the clock to save them.
Johannesburg, South Africa (07 February 2025) – Johannesburg has a bit of an unusual problem – and it’s covered in fur! Over the past few years, tame bunnies have been appearing in parks, office complexes and even suburban gardens, left to fend for themselves after being abandoned.
Domestic rabbits, unlike their wild counterparts, are not equipped for life outside. They struggle to find food, are easy prey for predators and often succumb to the elements.
But amidst this crisis, a group of dedicated individuals has been quietly working behind the scenes to turn the tide for these vulnerable creatures. Berario Bunnies, a nonprofit organisation, has become Joburg’s go-to rescue team for abandoned rabbits. Their mission? To trap, sterilise, and rehome these bunnies, ensuring they get the care and safety they deserve.
This small but mighty team has gained a reputation for their relentless efforts, and many Joburg residents now have them on “speed dial” when they spot a bunny in need.
One of their recent rescues was particularly heartbreaking. Kayla Harris, who calls herself a “concerned outsider trying to help,” shared the story with Good Things Guy after witnessing Berario Bunnies in action.
“A delicate Jersey Woolly was found terrified in an office park where she had been dumped. Her breed’s soft, long fur is not designed for the outdoors—it mats, traps moisture, and leads to infections if not groomed regularly,” Kayla explained.
“By the time we found her, her fur was thick with dirt and debris and her little body exhausted from trying to fend for herself in an unfamiliar territory. Another young female who had been fighting to survive was rescued in the same office park, with a badly broken leg that was beyond repair. Amputation was the only option—an unexpected cost. I asked Berario Bunnies to help and despite their drowning in vet bills and lack of space, they did.”
Kayla’s reason for sharing the story is simple: Berario Bunnies needs support to keep going. The organisation relies entirely on the generosity of South Africans to cover medical expenses, food and shelter for the rabbits they rescue.
“Every bunny that Berario Bunnies take in needs to be sterilised to prevent further unwanted litters. But the funds are so limited. The vet bills have piled up, even with special rescue rates.”
“Please, if there’s anything you can do—whether it’s raising awareness, helping to fundraise, or sharing Berario Bunnies’ story— we would be forever grateful. These animals have suffered enough at the hands of cruel humans. They deserve a chance at a safe, loving life. Berario Bunnies deserves to sigh a breath of relief. They need the community to pull together and help.”
At the heart of it all, this story is not just about abandoned rabbits – it’s about kindness, community and the extraordinary difference that can be made when people come together for good. Joburg may have a bunny problem, but thanks to Berario Bunnies, it also has a solution.
If you would like to help, learn more, or even adopt one of these special rescues, you can visit their Facebook page here: Berario Bunnies.
*There are many incredible organisations helping the bunnies in Johannesburg (and South Africa), this is just one story highlighting the good work they all do. If you want your good news story told (even if it’s not about bunnies), please email stories@goodthingsguy.com.
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