Wildlife in Paris #5

In addition to seeing rats, goats, bees and insects in Paris, we have also spotted some other critters.

While visiting Les Invalides this Summer, there was a colony of rabbits hopping all over the large lawn while nibbling the grass.  

The presence of so many rabbits in the center of Paris was a leporine mystery.

Above, Sally (Marie-Chantal's sister) is delightfully mystified at seeing so many rabbits. 

We later learned that the rabbits arrived at Les Invalides about two years ago.  The theory is that the colony grew from some domesticated rabbits that were introduced to the site.  Of course, when you have more than one rabbit, many more will follow.

The fine folks who operate Les Invalides have adopted the quintessentially French laissez-faire attitude, generally ignoring the furry creatures.  Once a year, however, the area has been fenced and a ferret brought in to dislodge the rabbits from their tunnels.  Many of the rabbits are then caged and relocated.  Where the rabbits go next is unclear--perhaps to the countryside in nearby Normandy, perhaps to the "farm", perhaps to the kitchen of Les Invalides where the result is ragout de lapin (rabbit stew).

Despite the capture and relocation effort, some fugitive rabbits continue to live at Les Invalides, keeping the lawn nearly manicured.     

Speaking of rabbits, while strolling one evening, we spotted a couple taking their rabbits for a walk.

Thanks for sharing more Paris wildlife with us.