Hazel, Binky

There is a term for what rabbits do, when they are beyond excited: they “binky.” I’ve seen it used as both a noun and a verb.

You know how, in musicals… things swell to a point where the characters have no choice, are so overcome with the moment that they break out into song? That’s pretty much what is happening for bunnies, except that they just leap up into the air.

It’s a joyous thing to see, because it’s a direct indicator that the bunny rabbit happy, excited, perhaps both. It’s an expression of joy, and not something they do unless they’re really having a good time.

With Hugo upstairs (and us trying to bond him and Penny together)… Hazel has had the run of the first floor. In fact, Liz opened up her pen so that Hazel could just free roam during the day… and Hazel has really taken a shine to all the new space and room for her to wander.

While hanging out with her a few nights ago, Liz capture this moment:

What a great thing to see! After we took Hazel in, she started to show symptoms of some pretty serious neurological issues – and started to really have difficulty with her balance. Back then, Liz and I were concerned that she wasn’t going to be around long – and it seemed like she was on the decline.

I’ll be very honest – I was convinced we were going to lose her. But she rebounded, and has been resilient ever since.

She still struggles with her balance, that hasn’t gone away. But lately, with room to roam and run… she’s been doing just that. And seeing her do a binky… and seeing her stick the landing, to boot? It makes us happy to see her so happy.

Related:
Hugo’s Speed Dates: Animal Care League
Hazel, Struggling